Fans erupted with excitement as the UConn Huskies secured a significant victory over the Gonzaga Bulldogs. The win reignited the team’s momentum, prompting enthusiastic reactions from supporters who are ready to rally behind their squad for the rest of the season.
The No. 18 Huskies triumphed over the No. 8 Bulldogs with a score of 77-71. Liam McNeeley was the standout player, scoring a remarkable 26 points and securing eight rebounds. This victory not only marked the team’s fourth consecutive win but also celebrated head coach Dan Hurley’s 300th career victory.
The Huskies started strong, establishing a commanding 13-2 lead early in the game. The Huskies maintained this momentum to finish the first half ahead 43-40. Despite facing pressure from the Bulldogs, who managed to tie the game at 55 with back-to-back three-pointers by Khalif Battle and Ryan Nembhard, UConn quickly responded with a decisive 10-0 run, demonstrating their resilience.
Tarris Reed Jr. and Jaylin Stewart also contributed significantly, scoring 12 and 10 points, respectively. Reed’s defensive prowess was evident with three blocked shots, while Stewart’s five consecutive points during a crucial timeout helped shift the game in the Huskies’ favor. The team shot 45.8% from the field overall, showcasing their offensive depth despite some struggles from beyond the arc.
NCAA Fans React To UConn Huskies’ Big Win Over Gonzaga Bulldogs
UConn has emerged as a contender again after their big win over the Bulldogs, leading fans to react. The reactions can be seen in a pair of tweets posted by Will Jackowski and NCAA March Madness on X.
we back https://t.co/sW7jSskSWQ
— jacko (@willjackowski) December 15, 2024
“UConn is climbing back into it,” Stetty Sports said.
“Gonzaga overrated this year,” Joe mentioed.
“And y’all thought we were dead,” ATrain tweeted.
“We’re gonna act like Maui never happened … THIS is the real UConn team,” SKYrie Irving reacted.
“They’ve ‘Awakin’ The Sleeping Giant,” Robb Kidd shared.
“UConn nation is elite. Period,” Ashley Elsey posted.
“UConn🤔 I remember them,” Jackson noted.
For the Bulldogs, Khalif Battle led the scoring with 21 points, but the Bulldogs couldn’t find their rhythm in the second half, shooting just 35.5%. This loss marked the team’s second in a row, following a narrow defeat to Kentucky just a week prior. Additionally, star player Graham Ike struggled with foul trouble, limiting his impact on the game.
Looking ahead, the Huskies’ next challenge will be their Big East opener against Xavier, while the Bulldogs will return home to face Nicholls State. Both teams will aim to regroup and build momentum as the season progresses, with the Dan Hurley-coached team looking to maintain their winning streak and Gonzaga eager to bounce back.
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