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Backcourt, recruiting class will determine UConn's success

UConn ESPN

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No. 11: UCONN HUSKIES

Last season: 25-11, 11-7 American

Guards win in college basketball, and Kevin Ollie will have a pair of point guards who can play in sophomore Jalen Adams and freshman Alterique Gilbert. Talented VCU transfer Terry Larrier is eligible and has pro potential. Plus, Rodney Purvis is back. The key is up front where the Huskies could use someone who can be a factor on the offensive end. -- Jeff Goodman

Best case: Sweet 16, maybe Elite Eight. The Huskies had an improbable finish to the season, and won the American title. Sure, Kevin Ollie lost Daniel Hamilton to the NBA draft process, but he returns some quality veterans and has an excellent recruiting class. Jalen Adams is ready to break out and take over, and with freshman Alterique Gilbert, UConn has a very talented backcourt. Amida Brimah is back in the post, and Terry Larrier is eligible after transferring from VCU. The Huskies have depth and should be hungry.

Worst case: First-weekend casualty. UConn has some new pieces and is young in key spots. Early games in Maui and against Syracuse should show us exactly how good the Huskies can be. In any case, this is an NCAA tournament team but must get back to tough defense.


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