Hurley Leads UConn To Third Final In Four Years
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Hurley Leads UConn To Third Final In Four Years

03 April, 2026.Sports.24 sources

Key Takeaways

  • UConn defeated Illinois 71-62 to advance to the national title game.
  • Dan Hurley-coached UConn advances to third title game in four seasons.
  • Braylon Mullins hit a decisive late 3-pointer; Reed posted 17 points and 11 rebounds.

UConn's Historic Run

Dan Hurley led the UConn Huskies to their third NCAA Championship game in four years.

UConn defeated Illinois 71-62 in the Final Four.

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The Huskies hit 12 three-pointers and silenced Illinois' shooters.

UConn improved to 18-1 in their last 19 NCAA Tournament games.

Hurley owns the second-best winning percentage in March Madness history behind only John Wooden.

Hurley's Fiery Leadership

Hurley's intensity is a defining characteristic of the Huskies' run.

He has made headlines for his sideline antics and confrontations with officials.

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Hurley described his on-court persona as an alter-ego.

His father called Dan's achievements unbelievable and compared him to John Wooden.

Players credit his passion for fueling their confidence.

UConn's Climbing Dynasty

A third championship in four years would cement UConn as a modern dynasty.

UConn would have seven national titles, third-most of any school.

Hurley's $50 million contract makes him the highest-paid state employee in Connecticut.

He is one victory shy of tying Jim Calhoun for most titles.

Analysts call this one of the most incredible coaching jobs in any sport this century.

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