UConn Dominates Marquette in No. 1 vs No. 4 Showdown
In a highly anticipated matchup between the top-ranked University of Connecticut (UConn) and the fourth-ranked Marquette, UConn proved their dominance with an impressive 81-53 victory. This win served as revenge for UConn, who had suffered two defeats at the hands of Marquette last season, including one in the Big East Tournament.
The game started off tight, with both teams battling for control. However, UConn managed to break open the game with a 13-0 run late in the first half. Despite struggling with their shooting, UConn’s defensive domination and ability to secure offensive rebounds propelled them to success. They shot just 39 percent in the first half but managed to tally 11 offensive rebounds, resulting in nine second-chance points. Donovan Clingan, the 7-foot-2 center, played a crucial role in this aspect of the game, grabbing five offensive boards and contributing 17 points on an impressive 7-of-8 shooting.
Marquette’s pick-and-roll game, led by point guard Tyler Kolek and big man Oso Ighodaro, failed to find success. UConn’s defense, spearheaded by Clingan, effectively shut down their attempts. Additionally, UConn’s athletic guards applied relentless pressure on Kolek, limiting his performance. The other players on Marquette’s team couldn’t capitalize on the attention given to their key players, resulting in a lackluster shooting performance and six turnovers in the first half. Kolek, the reigning Big East Player of the Year, finished with just seven points on 2-of-11 shooting.
With a 16-point lead at halftime, UConn continued to extend their advantage throughout the second half. The team showcased a balanced attack, with Clingan’s impressive performance being complemented by point guard Tristen Newton’s 15 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists. Cam Spencer and Hassan Diarra also contributed 14 points each. On Marquette’s side, Kam Jones led the team with 15 points, while Ighodaro added 14.
This victory for UConn solidifies their position as the defending national champions. With a record of 14-1 in Big East play and 24-2 overall, the team boasts the nation’s No. 3 offensive rating on Kenpom.com. Despite missing Clingan for seven games and freshman standout Stephon Castle for 10, UConn has managed to win 14 straight games. Their recent victories have come by at least 25 points, showcasing their dominance on both ends of the court.
For Marquette, this loss was a missed opportunity to secure a signature road win that could have boosted their chances of earning a No. 1 seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament. With an eight-game winning streak prior to this matchup, Marquette was outclassed throughout the entire game. This defeat emphasized the work that needs to be done for Marquette to have a fighting chance in their upcoming rematch with UConn in three weeks.
UConn’s continued success and strong performance in this matchup make it unlikely for them to be knocked off the No. 1 seed line in the tournament. Their impressive record and consistent dominance make them a formidable force heading into the postseason. As they look ahead to future matchups, UConn remains a team to watch, as they aim to defend their national championship title.
(Photo: David Butler II / USA Today)