Locked On UConn - Daily Podcast on University of Connecticut Huskies Football and Basketball

The Face of College Basketball

Episode Summary

On this episode of Locked On UConn, Mark Zanetto interviews basketball insider Adam Zagoria to explore why Dan Hurley is now considered the face of college basketball after leading UConn to back-to-back national titles. They delve into Hurley's unique approach to forming genuine connections within the basketball community and his impact as a two-time national champion. The discussion also examines the media's portrayal of Hurley and whether UConn views him as infallible. Additionally, the episode touches on Hurley's response to a move to Kentucky, with insights on why the offer was turned down and how this reflects Hurley's commitment to UConn. Through engaging conversation, Zanetto and Zagoria provide listeners with an in-depth analysis of Dan Hurley's influential role in college basketball.

Episode Notes

Main Discussion:

• The conversation begins with whether Dan Hurley, coming off back-to-back national titles, is now the new face of college basketball.
• The uniqueness of Hurley’s approach is discussed, focusing on the genuine connections he forms with recruits, staff, and both current and former players, setting him apart in the basketball community.
• The significance of being a 2-time national champion in the coaching world is explored, along with speculations on how long the admiration for Dan Hurley will last within the basketball community.

Media Portrayal of Dan Hurley:

• The episode navigates through the media portrayal of Hurley, debating whether it has been fair or unfair.
• A discussion on whether UConn has reached a stage where Dan Hurley is perceived as infallible in the eyes of Husky Nation and the potential implications of such a perception.

The Kentucky Job:

• Insights into Dan Hurley’s career and his decision-making process regarding job opportunities, including a brief exploration of his recent interaction with the University of Kentucky's basketball program.
• Conversation touches on how the Kentucky job proposition was received by Hurley and his community, including comments from notable figures like Ray Allen, and Rich Eisen’s perspective on the situation being disrespectful towards Hurley.
• An examination of Hurley's response to questions about resources and his loyalty to UConn in the face of enticing offers from other programs.