UConn Huskies taking their Big East Championship picture in Madison Square Garden
(Photo Courtesy University of Connecticut Athletics)
In front of a sold-out crowd at Madison Square Garden, the UConn Huskies became the 2024 Big East Champions after beating the defending champions, the Marquette Golden Eagles, 73-57. This is UConn’s first title since 2011, and they are now tied with Georgetown in winning eight Big East tournament titles.
For the first six minutes of the first half, Marquette’s defense prevented UConn from scoring. However, UConn closed out the first half in front 26-24. In the second half, UConn’s Jaylin Steward helped boost the team when he made three 3-pointers. UConn scored 47 points in the second half.
Donovan Clingan put on a show and led UConn with 22 points and 16 rebounds. Tristen Newton scored 13 points and 10 assists and was named the Big East Tournament MVP.
After the game, Marquette head coach Shaka Smart took questions from the media. A reporter referred to Smart saying the team ran out of steam, and asked what he thought contributed to that and if there was anything specific. Smart responded, “You ever play three Big East games in three days?”
When addressing the media following the game, UConn’s coach Dan Hurley said, “I say it a lot, but it was two championship programs on the court. I think we mirror each other in so many ways. I just got so much respect for Shaka, so much respect for their team. In the way they go about their program. I don’t hear them tampering with players in the portal. It’s a privilege to play against them, classy program, championship program. “
Now that the Big East Tournament is over, March Madness is next, which will begin on March 19th. UConn has played remarkable basketball all season. The question is, will they continue playing this way in March Madness?