Storrs, CT — Alex Karaban delivered in the clutch, sinking a decisive 3-pointer with 23.7 seconds remaining as UConn defeated No. 20 Marquette 72-66 on Wednesday, March 5.
Karaban led the Huskies (21-9, 13-6 Big East) with 21 points, while Liam McNeeley added 11. Samson Johnson recorded a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds.
UConn’s victory pulled them into a tie with Marquette for third place in the conference standings. The Huskies own the tiebreaker after sweeping the season series.
Marquette (22-8, 13-6) saw David Joplin put up a game-high 23 points, with Kam Jones adding 21. However, the Golden Eagles struggled from beyond the arc, shooting just 3-for-22 (13.6%).
UConn ripped off a 10-0 run late in the second half, fueled by dunks from Jaylin Stewart, Tarris Reed Jr., and Johnson. That gave the Huskies a 61-54 lead with 7:49 to play. Marquette fought back, but Karaban’s late 3-pointer provided the cushion UConn needed. Hassan Diarra sealed the win with two free throws.
The opening tip was delayed by 22 minutes due to facility issues, according to a statement from UConn.
The Huskies close their regular season at home against last-place Seton Hall on Saturday. Marquette will host No. 6 St. John’s.
