Connecticut displayed a versatile offensive performance one night, scoring 95 points, but struggled to score in the following game, relying heavily on their defense.
Rick Pitino commented on the Huskies’ ability to win in various ways, as seen in the Big East Tournament.
The Huskies initially relied on their defense before finding their offensive rhythm.
Once their offense clicked, Marquette was unable to keep up.
Dan Hurley’s team secured their first Big East Tournament title since rejoining the league, defeating Marquette 73-57 at the Garden on Saturday night.
This victory marked UConn’s first league tournament title since 2011 and their eighth overall, tying them with Georgetown for the most in Big East history.
With Houston and Purdue both suffering losses in their conference tournaments, defending national champions Connecticut are in contention for the top seed in the upcoming NCAA Tournament.
They have the potential to become the first repeat national champions since Florida in 2006-07.
UConn broke open a close game with a 19-5 run led by freshman Jaylin Stewart. Prior to the run, Marquette was only trailing by two points.
By the end of the game, the Huskies had a comfortable 16-point lead with 5:54 remaining.
Even with Cam Spencer and Tristen Newton struggling, the Huskies managed to secure the win.
Donovan Clingan bounced back from a shaky semifinal with a dominant performance of 22 points, 16 rebounds, and two blocks.
Stewart contributed nine points off the bench, his second-highest scoring game of the season.
Despite shooting 48 percent in the second half, Marquette was outscored by 14 points.
Once UConn found their rhythm, they maintained their momentum, shooting 63 percent from the field in the second half. Kam Jones led the Golden Eagles with 13 points, followed by David Joplin with 12, but the duo only shot a combined 9 of 29.
