UConn's Karaban Leads Huskies to Sweet 16 with Career-High Performance

Veteran forward Alex Karaban scored a career-best 27 points to power UConn past UCLA in the NCAA Tournament's second round.

Mar. 23, 2026 at 4:20am

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UConn senior forward Alex Karaban had a career-high 27 points to lead the Huskies to an 82-71 victory over UCLA in the second round of the NCAA Tournament. Karaban, an experienced player who has been part of UConn's recent championship runs, was the offensive catalyst for the Huskies, hitting four 3-pointers and dominating inside the paint. His big performance helped UConn advance to the Sweet 16, where they will face Michigan State.

Why it matters

Karaban's standout game highlights the depth and veteran leadership that has made UConn a consistent contender under coach Dan Hurley. The Huskies have relied on experienced players like Karaban to complement their young stars, and his career-high scoring night was crucial in dispatching a tough UCLA squad.

The details

Karaban scored a career-high 27 points on 9-of-16 shooting, including 4-of-8 from 3-point range. He also grabbed 5 rebounds and blocked 1 shot. Karaban's scoring outburst came at a crucial time, as UConn's leading scorer Braylon Mullins was held in check by the Bruins' defense.

  • UConn defeated UCLA 82-71 on Sunday, March 23, 2026 to advance to the Sweet 16.

The players

Alex Karaban

A senior forward for the UConn Huskies who has been a key contributor to the team's recent championship runs.

Dan Hurley

The head coach of the UConn men's basketball team, who has led the Huskies to consistent success and deep NCAA Tournament runs.

Braylon Mullins

UConn's leading scorer, who was held in check by UCLA's defense in the second-round matchup.

Tyler Bilodeau

UCLA's top scorer who missed the game against UConn due to injury.

Tarris Reed Jr.

A UConn player who had a historic performance in the team's first-round NCAA Tournament win over Furman.

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What they’re saying

“Alex Karaban's last journey with UConn can take him into rare company.”

— Mike DeCourcy

What’s next

UConn will face Michigan State in the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

Karaban's career-high performance showcases the veteran leadership and depth that has made UConn a consistent contender under coach Dan Hurley. The Huskies' ability to get contributions from experienced players like Karaban, in addition to their young stars, has been a key factor in their sustained success.