Game Preview and Discussion Thread: UConn vs Columbia, TV: 7:30pm, SNY

**Halftime**UConn 39-Coumbia 36

This is a different UConn team than what we've seen recently. They're making threes, the ball is moving and it is going in the basket. The problem: the defense did not make the trip to Bridgeport.Columbia is shooting an unfathomable 57% from the field, including 4-11 from downtown. The biggest issue is that their big men are camping at the top of the key and finding cutting guards for easy layups. The UConn defense, Kentan Facey and Amida Brimah specifically, need to do a better job at harassing their men. Offensively, there are lots of positives. Rodney Purvis has taken his open shots, making two three pointers and knocking down an "and-one" jumper. Ryan Boatright led all scorers with 14 at the half. On to the second

Coming off a tough loss to No. 2 Duke, UConn (4-4) returns to Connecticut to face Columbia (6-3). The two sides will meet at the Webster Bank Arena in Bridgeport.

This will be the 10th meeting between the two schools. UConn holds a 7-2 advantage all time. In their last meeting, Nov. 11, 2011, UConn came away with a 70-57 victory. Columbia has not defeated UConn since Dec. 7, 1976.

Look for senior guard Ryan Boatright to continue his stellar play. He is currently leading the American Athletic Conference in points per game, with 19.3. He's also averaging 5.8 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 2.0 steals.

Against Duke, UConn guard Terrence Samuel went down with an ankle injury and he was listed as day-to-day. He was in warm-ups and looked to be moving alright, but he remains a game-time decision.

With just three non-conference games remaining, this would be a big win to get momentum back on UConn's side.

Tip off is at 7:30 here in Bridgeport. Follow me on Twitter @ElanDeCarlo for up to the minute updates. Check back here at at halftime and directly after the final whistle for recaps.