Takeaways: UConn Gets Elite
The Huskies delivered a finish for the ages in a game that took an interesting course.
Mar 27, 2026; Washington, DC, USA; UConn Huskies guard Solo Ball (1) dribbles the ball past Michigan State Spartans forward Coen Carr (55) in the first half during a Sweet Sixteen game of the East Regional of the men's 2026 NCAA Tournament at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images | Geoff Burke-Imagn Images UConn men’s basketball took down Michigan State in Friday night’s Sweet 16 matchup, setting up a big game against Duke on Sunday with a Final Four berth on the line. Where else would you rather be?
The Huskies jumped out to a big early lead before the Spartans punched back, briefly taking the lead before the UConn stars put the game away. It was a stellar team performance, led by their seniors. Bench Mob Martin: With the Huskies in cruise control to start, Hurley went to his bench.
A lineup of Jayden Ross, Jaylin Stewart back from injury, Eric Reibe, Malachi Smith, and some rotation of a starter (it was Alex, then Braylon, then Solo). A show of faith to go four deep from the staff that early in the game, given how UConn started. Malachi Smith hit a three-pointer and had a few assists.
Jaylin Stewart knocked a trey down. Ross brought the defensive pressure. While it may not look like it on the statsheet, the bench added to the lead; four players executed their role, and Ball broke out of his slump.
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