UConn Basketball Faces Injury Concerns Ahead of NCAA Tournament

Head coach Dan Hurley provides updates on key players' status for the first round

Mar. 16, 2026 at 3:52am

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UConn basketball is heading into the 2026 NCAA Tournament with some injury concerns. Head coach Dan Hurley shared updates on the status of two key players - forward Jaylin Stewart and guard Silas Demary Jr. Stewart's status for the first round is uncertain, while Demary is reported to be 'in pretty good shape'. The Huskies are the No. 2 seed and will face the No. 15 Furman Paladins on Friday in Philadelphia.

Why it matters

UConn is looking to reclaim the national title after missing out on a three-peat in 2025. The health of Stewart and Demary could be crucial to the Huskies' chances of making a deep tournament run. Demary in particular is a key contributor, leading the team in assists and steals.

The details

Forward Jaylin Stewart has not played since a Feb. 21 game against Villanova and missed the entire Big East tournament. Coach Hurley said it 'will be close' on whether Stewart can play in the first round. Meanwhile, junior guard Silas Demary Jr. is reported to be 'in pretty good shape'. Demary is second on the team in usage and leads the Huskies in assists and steals.

  • Stewart has not played since a Feb. 21 game against Villanova.
  • UConn will face Furman in the first round on Friday, March 21, 2026.

The players

Dan Hurley

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

Jaylin Stewart

A junior forward for the UConn Huskies who has been sidelined with an injury.

Silas Demary Jr.

A junior guard for the UConn Huskies who is reported to be in 'pretty good shape' heading into the NCAA Tournament.

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What they’re saying

“It'll be close”

— Dan Hurley, Head Coach, UConn Huskies

“Silas Demary Jr. is in pretty good shape”

— Dan Hurley, Head Coach, UConn Huskies

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

UConn's chances of making a deep NCAA Tournament run could hinge on the health of key players like Jaylin Stewart and Silas Demary Jr. The team will need to navigate the early rounds with caution as they look to reclaim the national title.