UConn Coach Concerned About Alex Karaban After Loss

Hurley says Karaban was "a shell of himself" in defeat to Creighton.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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The UConn Huskies suffered a surprising 91-84 home loss to the Creighton Bluejays, with coach Dan Hurley expressing concern over the performance and health of key player Alex Karaban. Hurley said Karaban was "a shell of himself" and "not moving well" on the court, hinting at a potential physical issue that may require further evaluation.

Why it matters

Karaban is a two-time champion and third-leading scorer for the fifth-ranked Huskies, so any injury or health concern could significantly impact the team's chances of making a deep NCAA Tournament run. Hurley's comments raise questions about Karaban's status and UConn's lineup going forward.

The details

Karaban, who normally contributes significantly, finished the Creighton game with just 2 points on 1-of-5 shooting, along with 4 rebounds, 2 assists and a turnover. Hurley suggested he may have played Karaban despite the player saying he was "fine," and that the coach is now looking to "figure out what's going on with him physically."

  • The UConn Huskies lost to Creighton 91-84 on February 19, 2026.
  • UConn's next game is at Villanova on February 21, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time.

The players

Dan Hurley

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

Alex Karaban

A four-year player for the UConn Huskies who is the team's third-leading scorer, averaging 13 points per game.

Braylon Mullins

A freshman player for the UConn Huskies who scored 25 points in the loss to Creighton.

Taris Reed Jr.

A UConn Huskies player who recorded a double-double in the loss to Creighton.

Jayden Ross

A UConn Huskies reserve player who saw increased minutes due to his defensive skills.

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What they’re saying

“Maybe I shouldn't have played Alex today. You know he said he was fine and he's dealing with something physically. He was not moving well out there on the court.”

— Dan Hurley, Head Coach, UConn Huskies (Newsweek)

“We gotta figure out what's going on with him physically, because he was moving around out there like a cargo ship.”

— Dan Hurley, Head Coach, UConn Huskies (Newsweek)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.