UConn Daily Digest: The Hype Machine is Roaring

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Furphy and Reibe represent the next level in Hurley-era recruiting

“He may not be a perfect fit for everybody, but he’s a perfect fit for us.”

These are the words UConn assistant men’s basketball coach Luke Murray recently used to describe incoming freshman guard Jacob Furphy, whose style is emblematic of the continued shift that the team has been making strategically.

Dan Hurley has gained an appreciation for European hoops, as FOX Sports’ Michael Cohen writes in this article, going back to his offensive epiphany after the 2021-2022 season. He’s credited assistant coach Luke Murray with watching film from all over the world to help develop new on-court tactics.

Watch: Jacob Furphy FIBA U19 Film Review

Storrs Central’s Brian Kervick is comparing Furphy to Cam Spencer, who was an absolute delight to watch in his one year as a Husky. Imagine four years of someone with that kind of ability.

Eric Reibe is a type of player that Husky fans really haven’t seen a lot of in the past: A skilled big with shooting range who can play within the offense. He has a strong understanding of the game and expectations to contribute as a freshman.

Furphy and Reibe join a UConn team that has re-tooled after last year’s disappointing outcome. As we detailed in last week’s newsletter, the word on five-star freshman Braylon Mullins is that he’s the real deal and the Huskies made some major portal additions. After pushing for a three-peat bid last year, expectations remain sky-high for 2025-26.

Hurley on Rothstein’s pod

Dan Hurley appeared on Jon Rothstein’s podcast on Thursday. He detailed the struggles of last season, considerations of becoming an NBA head coach, and thoughts on the season ahead. 

You can listen to the full episode here. 

Rothstein has expressed optimism for UConn’s roster, which many, including Hurley himself, are comparing to the 2023 team that won it all. Adding to the pile of national media love, ESPN’s Jeff Borzello has UConn 4th in his early top 25. Field of 68 has also highlighted the potential monster brewing in Storrs for this upcoming season:

“UConn might have the nation’s best offense. And with a motivated roster and a motivated coach who can raise the defensive level from average to solid, well, we’ve seen this story before.”

FOX superstar Jon Fanta joined their show to offer a deep preview of this year’s team.

Illinois home-and-home scheduled

After hosting Illinois at Madison Square Garden this season in a matchup that was announced in June, the Huskies will be making a return trip to visit the Illini at the United Center in Chicago in 2026.

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Weekly Rewind

Men’s Basketball

Sayon Keita: Prospect Profile (Official Visit 8/2) ($) – The defensive stalwart could be the next in line of UConn centers from Mali.

Jacob Furphy FIBA U19 Film Review – The incoming freshman’s highlights from the July tournament. 

Dan Hurley media availability - 8/8/25 – The second summer session of practices has wrapped up in Storrs. 

UConn men’s basketball player media availability - 8/8/25 – Silas Demary Jr., Eric Reibe, Braylon Mullins, Solo Ball, Tarris Reed Jr., and Jaylin Stewart all met with reporters.

Women’s Basketball

Aaliyah Edwards traded to Connecticut Sun – The acquisition of Edwards means four former Huskies are on their roster, the most of any WNBA team. 

Why pickup games are the lifeblood of UConn’s summer workouts ($) – Restricted by NCAA activity rules, players rely on pickup games to hone their skills during the summer. 

Stewart, Collier, and Bueckers manage injuries, CBA negotiations and Unrivaled future – Wild times for UConn’s former stars. 

Breaking down UConn’s non-conference schedule – A deep dive into UConn’s first half. 

Football

8/5 Practice Notes: 2025 UConn Football Fall Camp ($) – Fall camp is in full swing, and the season opener is almost here!

UConn Football Fall Camp Media Availability - 8.5.25 – Jim Mora and others speak after practice last week. 

Hockey

UConn women’s hockey releases 2025-26 schedule – An exhibition with Quinnipiac on September 20 precedes the Huskies’ 34-game slate. 

UConn men’s hockey releases 2025-26 schedule – UConn will travel to Colorado College to open the season, starting a weekend series on October 3.

Baseball

Wiffle Ball Founder David N. Mullany Got His Start in Storrs ($) – The iconic game was invented by a former baseball player from the Aggies of Connecticut Agricultural College (now UConn).

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