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UConn Coach Dan Hurley Vows to Remain Calm During March Madness
Hurley says his intense sideline demeanor motivates his players despite his own pre-game anxiety.
Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:09am
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UConn men's basketball coach Dan Hurley is known for his fiery and intense sideline presence during games, but he says he's working to remain calmer during the high-stakes environment of the NCAA March Madness tournament. Hurley admits he still deals with pre-game jitters and anxiety, but believes his passionate coaching style ultimately helps motivate his players.
Why it matters
Hurley's coaching style has been a point of discussion, with some criticizing his emotional outbursts, while his players say they feed off his intensity. As UConn makes another March Madness run, Hurley's ability to channel his energy in a productive way could be crucial to the team's success.
The details
Hurley is open about his struggles with anxiety, saying the pre-game nerves and lack of sleep never fully go away despite his success as a coach. However, he believes his fiery sideline demeanor ultimately helps bring out the best in his players, who embrace the passion he brings to the team. Hurley's intensity has at times drawn criticism, but he maintains that his coaching style is an integral part of UConn's identity and culture.
- UConn is set to compete in the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament, known as March Madness.
The players
Dan Hurley
The head coach of the University of Connecticut men's basketball team, known for his intense and emotional sideline presence.
What they’re saying
“The pre-game jitters, night before a game where you don't sleep, none of that stuff dissipates by accomplishment.”
— Dan Hurley, Head Coach, University of Connecticut Men's Basketball
The takeaway
Hurley's coaching style, while sometimes criticized, has become an integral part of UConn's identity and culture. As the team prepares for another March Madness run, Hurley's ability to channel his energy and intensity in a productive way could be crucial to their success.
