UConn HC Dan Hurley gives young hooper insights on how to be recruited by D1 coaches
A common theme appeared when Dan Hurley, Jon Scheyer, Tom Izzo, John Calipari, Bruce Pearl, Matt McMahon and others were questioned about the top aspects that make them recruit young hoopers.
In a video posted by Overtime on July 18, some of the top coaches in Division I basketball echoed competitiveness, drive to win, basketball IQ and openness to learn as the key factors in a player.
"What I look for is just winning qualities, competitiveness, be able to think the game and be a good teammate, be coachable," Dan Hurley said. "Obviously got to have the talent. But that stuff's even more important," he followed.
Dan Hurley is probably the best D1 coach in modern-day basketball. In the last two years, his UConn Huskies have won 52 of 57 games (91.2%) and have lifted back-to-back NCAA championships; the only team to do so since Florida in 2007.
Despite losing key players, Dan Hurley's coaching acumen makes UConn a championship favorite
While UConn's success can be labeled on its roster, it majorly stems from Hurley's influence. A significant factor is the varying top contributors in UConn's 2022 and 2023 rosters.
The 2022-23 squad was led by Adama Sanogo (17.2 points, 7.7 rebounds and 60.6% field goal efficiency), Jordan Hawkins (16.2 points, 3.8 rebounds and 40.9% shooting clip) alongside Tristen Newton's improving 10.1 ppg and 4.5 rpg contributions.
Last year, UConn lost eight players from the initial championship roster and still dominated the collegiate circuit. Returning players Tristen Newton, Alex Caraban and Donovan Clingan spearheaded the offense with 15.1 ppg, 13.3 ppg and 13 ppg respectively. Moreover, new additions Stephon Castle added 11.1 points alongside 14.3 points by Cam Spencer.
The starting lineup recorded a 22-1 winning record throughout the season and mounted double-digit wins over each NCAA opponent.
As UConn enters the 2024-25 season without seven players from the previous roster and only one returning started in Alex Karaban, the program is still perceived to contend for the NCAA title and make history by clinching a three-peat.
The reasons behind their continued contention chances are Dan Hurley's mentorship, culture-forging mentality, player recruitment and player development programs.