UConn Coach Dan Hurley Leads Huskies to Final Four

Known for fiery antics, Hurley has guided UConn to the NCAA tournament's biggest stage.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 11:07am

UConn men's basketball coach Dan Hurley led the Huskies to a thrilling victory over Duke in the Elite Eight, sending the team to the Final Four. Hurley, known for his passionate sideline demeanor, has transformed UConn into a national powerhouse since taking over the program in 2018.

Why it matters

Hurley's success at UConn has reignited interest in the program, which had fallen on hard times in recent years. His ability to recruit top talent and motivate his players has made the Huskies a force to be reckoned with in college basketball.

The details

In the Elite Eight matchup against Duke, UConn guard Braylon Mullins hit a game-winning shot in the final seconds to secure the victory. Hurley, known for his fiery antics on the sideline, appeared to bump a referee during the celebration, though he later downplayed the incident, saying "It was absolutely nothing."

  • UConn defeated Duke in the Elite Eight on March 26, 2026.
  • The Huskies will face Illinois in the Final Four on April 5, 2026.

The players

Dan Hurley

The head coach of the UConn men's basketball team, known for his passionate sideline demeanor and ability to turn the program around since taking over in 2018.

Braylon Mullins

The UConn guard who hit the game-winning shot against Duke to send the Huskies to the Final Four.

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What they’re saying

“It was absolutely nothing.”

— Dan Hurley, Head Coach, UConn Men's Basketball

What’s next

UConn will face Illinois in the Final Four on April 5, 2026, with the winner advancing to the national championship game.

The takeaway

Dan Hurley's fiery coaching style and ability to turn UConn into a national powerhouse have made him one of the most exciting figures in college basketball. The Huskies' run to the Final Four has reignited the passion of the program's fanbase and set the stage for a potential national championship.