Just hours before the UConn Huskies take the floor against the UCLA Bruins in the NCAA Tournament Round of 32, the availability of key guard Silas Demary Jr remains the biggest question mark.
Huskies coach Dan Hurley acknowledged lingering uncertainty surrounding Silas Demary Jr.
Demary, who has been dealing with an ankle injury sustained during UConn’s Big East championship loss to St. John’s, was held out of the Huskies’ 82-71 first-round win over Furman. His status remains questionable entering Sunday night’s matchup, with a Sweet 16 berth on the line.
“I don’t want to make any more predictions,” Hurley said after the first-round win, via CT Insider David Borges. “The information that I shared in New York was the information I was provided with. It was close, he tried. Just couldn’t get himself to the point where he felt like he could go.”
Hurley added that both Demary and forward Jaylin Stewart would be monitored closely leading into the game, though he stopped short of confirming their availability.
“We gotta figure out what our health is. Hopefully one or both of those guys are available,” Hurley said.
Demary’s Absence Leaves a Notable Impact
Demary has been a central piece of UConn’s backcourt this season, averaging 10.9 points, 6.2 assists and 4.5 rebounds while also leading the team with 1.6 steals.
His absence in the first round forced UConn to adjust its rotation and offensive approach.
Much of the pregame discussion ahead of the Furman matchup centered on how the Huskies would compensate without one of their primary playmakers.
Veteran guard Malachi Smith and Alec Millender filled in, but UConn lacked some of its usual offensive rhythm and ball movement.
Huskies Advance Behind Reed’s Historic Performance
Despite missing two key contributors, UConn advanced comfortably behind a dominant outing from Tarris Reed Jr.
Reed delivered 31 points and 27 rebounds, powering the Huskies through the opening round and helping offset the absence of Demary and Stewart.
Alex Karaban also contributed timely scoring and finished with 22 points as UConn maintained control late in the game.
Still, the performance underscored how important Demary’s presence is, particularly against stronger competition.
Stewart Also Remains a Question Mark
Stewart has been sidelined with knee inflammation and has missed an extended stretch, including the entire Big East tournament and the first round of the NCAA Tournament.
His potential return would bolster UConn’s frontcourt depth and defensive versatility.
Like Demary, Stewart’s availability remains uncertain heading into Sunday night.
High Stakes Against UCLA
UConn now faces a UCLA team that presents a different level of challenge, particularly on the defensive end.
The Bruins are known for their physical style and ability to disrupt offensive rhythm, making UConn’s health situation even more critical.
Having Demary available would provide a boost in ball handling, playmaking and perimeter defense — all key factors in a tightly contested tournament matchup.
Betting Angle: Availability Could Swing the Outcome
UConn enters as a -4.5 favorite, but the uncertainty surrounding Demary and Stewart introduces volatility.
If Demary plays, UConn gains stability and offensive flow, but if he sits, UCLA’s upset chances increase.
The matchup could ultimately hinge on whether UConn regains its depth or is forced to rely on a shortened rotation.
Final Outlook
As tip-off approaches, UConn is still awaiting clarity.
Hurley’s comments suggest cautious optimism, but no guarantees.
With a trip to the Sweet 16 on the line, the status of Silas Demary Jr. — and Jaylin Stewart — could play a decisive role in determining the outcome of one of the NCAA Tournament’s most compelling second-round matchups.
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