UConn Star Braylon Mullins Announces He'll Stay for Second Season

Mullins turned down NBA draft to chase national championship with Huskies

Apr. 19, 2026 at 2:07am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An abstract expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the dynamic movements and energy of a basketball player, with their face and jersey number obscured into vibrant brushstrokes.Braylon Mullins' decision to return to UConn for another season injects the Huskies' roster with renewed energy and championship aspirations.Storrs Today

Braylon Mullins, the 20-year-old UConn basketball star who hit a game-winning 3-pointer to upset Duke in the NCAA tournament, announced on his birthday that he will return to Storrs for a second season instead of entering the NBA draft. Mullins' decision solidifies the Huskies' roster as they look to build on their tournament success, though they have also seen some key departures via the transfer portal.

Why it matters

Mullins' return is a major boost for UConn, as he would have been a likely first-round NBA draft pick. His decision to stay gives the Huskies a proven tournament hero and dynamic scorer to build around as they aim for a national championship. However, the team has also seen some significant roster turnover, making Mullins' leadership even more crucial.

The details

Mullins, who stunned the nation with a 35-foot game-winning jumper to upset top-seeded Duke in the East Regional Final of the NCAA tournament, announced on his 20th birthday that he will return to UConn for a second season instead of entering the NBA draft. The dynamic guard would have been a likely first-round pick, but chose to enjoy additional marketing opportunities and take another shot at a national title with the Huskies.

  • Mullins announced his decision on April 19, 2026, his 20th birthday.

The players

Braylon Mullins

A 20-year-old guard who starred for UConn, hitting a game-winning 3-pointer to upset Duke in the NCAA tournament.

Dan Hurley

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

Jaylin Stewart

A key player who recently departed UConn via the transfer portal.

Alex Karaban

A UConn player who used up his eligibility.

Tarris Reed

A UConn player who used up his eligibility.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Mullins' decision solidifies the Huskies' roster as they look to build on their tournament success, though they have also seen some key departures via the transfer portal. The team will also be adding former Duke forward Nikolas Khamenia, who will be a sophomore next season.

The takeaway

Braylon Mullins' decision to return to UConn for a second season is a major boost for the Huskies as they aim to build on their NCAA tournament success. However, the team has also seen significant roster turnover, making Mullins' leadership and scoring ability even more crucial as they chase a national championship.