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It’s amazing the difference a few months make. Even though South Florida is the worst team in the American, a dominant 97-51 win seemed like a pipe dream in November.
With the sweep of the Bulls, the Huskies have won six of their last eight in conference play to put themselves in good shape heading into the season’s final stretch.
The Huskies couldn’t miss as they shot 63% from the floor and were in control most of the way.
Here’s what we learned Wednesday:
Hot Shots
UConn came out firing from the opening tip and hit a school-record 16 three-pointers. Jalen Adams shot an incredible 6-8 from deep, Christian Vital shot 4-6.
However, the most eye-opening performance came from Rodney Purvis. The senior hit 8 of his 13 shots from the floor and six of nine from downtown. Purvis struggled out of the gate this season with a paltry 33% FG% and 28% 3PT%.
He has caught fire in his last five games averaging 17.4 PPG while shooting 55% from the floor and 52% from three. Purvis has been a streaky shooter throughout his time in Storrs. Hopefully, he’s finally broken out of a prolonged shooting slump.
Future Frontcourt Forecast?
Once a weakness for the Huskies, Amida Brimah and Kentan Facey’s strong play has turned the frontcourt into a major team strength. With both set to graduate in May, frontcourt play will once again be a question mark heading into next season.
But Steven Enoch and Juwan Durham’s performances Thursday gave UConn fans a glimpse of their potential. It was the first time in two weeks both played more than 13 minutes each. They combined for 23 points, 7 rebounds, and made 9 of 10 shots. Both played their best basketball this season by dominating the paint and the rim. These two can answer some doubts by staying healthy and making progress on the floor.
American Rising...
After starting 0-3 in AAC play, UConn finds itself tied for fifth with Tulsa at 6-5. Yes, the Huskies have taken advantage of a soft schedule and knocked off teams they’re supposed to beat. Be that as it may, UConn has a chance to finish as high as third in the conference. With games against UCF, Houston, and Memphis looming, they positioned themselves where they control their seeding in the AAC Tournament in Hartford.