UConn's Karaban Moving 'Better Than Cargo Ship', Says Coach Hurley

Star forward Alex Karaban expected to play through leg injury against Vanderbilt

Feb. 21, 2026 at 6:08pm

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UConn Huskies head coach Dan Hurley provided an interesting injury update on star forward Alex Karaban, saying the senior is moving 'better than a cargo ship' ahead of the team's game against Vanderbilt. Karaban has played in all 27 games so far this season despite dealing with a nagging leg injury in recent weeks.

Why it matters

Karaban has been a consistent and integral part of UConn's success in recent years, helping the Huskies win two championships in his first two seasons. His availability is crucial as the team looks to secure another title in what could be Karaban's final year with the program.

The details

Hurley used the unusual cargo ship analogy to indicate that Karaban is moving better than he was in a previous game. The 6-foot-8 forward has played through the leg injury, averaging 13.0 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game while shooting 47.5% from the field and a career-high 40.8% from 3-point range.

  • On Saturday, February 21, 2026, Hurley provided the injury update on Karaban ahead of UConn's game against Vanderbilt.

The players

Alex Karaban

A senior forward for the UConn Huskies who has been a consistent scorer and rebounder for the team, helping them win two championships in his first two seasons.

Dan Hurley

The head coach of the UConn Huskies men's basketball team.

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What they’re saying

“Danny Hurley checked in with a new injury designation. He told me that Alex Karaban is moving 'better than a cargo ship.' [Hurley] said [Karaban] was moving like a cargo ship the other night… Karaban is gonna play; he's been banged up.”

— Pete Thamel, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

Karaban is expected to play in UConn's game against Vanderbilt on Saturday, February 21, 2026, as the Huskies look to continue their successful season.

The takeaway

Karaban's ability to play through injury and remain a consistent contributor for the UConn Huskies highlights the team's depth and resilience as they pursue another championship in Karaban's final season with the program.