Alex Karaban announced his commitment to NBA select on Tuesday, returning to UConn to participate in his third season, boosting the university team's chances of securing a third consecutive national championship. Karaban expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "Of course, I enjoyed the selection process, but Storrs is my home. Let us come back for a ride." As a 6-foot-9-inch forward, Karaban became the top selection candidate, withdrew his name, and returned to university life. In the previous season, he averaged 13.3 points and 5.1 rebounds per game, with a shooting percentage of 37.9%, leading the team with 40 three-point attempts. Karaban has performed admirably in the eight-game season, scoring at least 20 points in each game. In March, he posted 23 points and five rebounds against Marquette University, recording two assists and three-pointers in four strong games. He finished with 14 points and 8 rebounds in the most recent game, aiding UConn's bid for the championship. This progress showcases his emergence as a new star of the NBA, as he initially placed 38th in field goal percentage, averaging 9.3 points and 4.5 rebounds per game. Karaban, the only returning starter for the Huskies, has been vital to the team's success, with the NBA hopefuls Stephon Castle and Donovan Clingan leading in points. Later, the senior players Tristen Newton and Cam Spencer put up competitive performances. All five players received invitations to join the NBA draft combine. Head coach Dan Hurley restructured the UConn team roster during the break, adding recruits Aidan Mahaney (St. Mary's College) and Tarris Reed (Midland University) while signing ten more players, including Liam McNeeley, to consolidate their squad. Rotation players Samson Johnson, Hassan Diarra, Solomon Ball, and Jaylin Stewart all returned, with hopes of making progress in the next season. Karaban's ESPN NBA draft ranking currently stands at 36th, a position that could potentially elevate UConn's status in the upcoming season. He may even surge into the top 25 and become one of the top five players.
