Philadelphia Showdown: Millender's Moment in the NCAA Spotlight
In a thrilling NCAA Tournament opener, Furman guard Eddrin Bronson found himself in a battle against UConn's relentless defense. Bronson, trying to set the pace for the Paladins, was met with fierce resistance from Alec Millender, who refused to give an inch.
Forced to relinquish the ball near half court, Bronson watched as Jayden Ross intercepted the pass, diving to the floor to secure possession before setting up Millender for a transition play. Millender, known more for his role off the bench, drove to the basket, absorbed contact, and somehow flicked the ball off the top of the backboard for a stunning score.
"That was a special moment," Ross shared. "I saw the pressure at half court and thought I could capitalize.
Diving for the ball and finding Alec was instinctive. For him to finish like that, through contact, was incredible.
He's poured so much into this program, and seeing him shine was a big lift for us."
Millender, who had previously played 104 college games and scored over 1,000 points at Wayne State and IU Indianapolis, joined UConn with aspirations of experiencing the NCAA Tournament's intensity. Despite limited playing time, he was ready when called upon, especially after Silas Demary Jr.'s injury left the Huskies needing depth.
“I’m living in answered prayers,” Millender said after UConn advanced to the Round of 32. “This is what I’ve dreamed of.
It was exhilarating, a blessing. I’ve worked so hard for moments like this.
Everything I’ve been through prepared me.”
Before Friday, Millender had seen action in only 15 games, with nine points in 3.1 minutes per game. His unexpected contribution against Furman was a morale booster, complementing standout performances from Tarris Reed Jr., who posted 31 points and 27 rebounds, and Alex Karaban, who added 22 points with four three-pointers.
“He brings energy wherever he is, on or off the court,” said freshman Braylon Mullins, who struggled in his debut, going 0-for-8 from beyond the arc. “He’s uplifting, always making people smile. We needed that.”
Coach Dan Hurley praised the decision to bring experienced players like Millender onto the team. “I’m so happy for him,” Hurley said. “His dad’s cigar on the way to the bus might’ve been a sign of good things to come.”
Freshman Eric Reibe, still seeking his first tournament points, was among the first to celebrate Millender’s bucket. “The way he hit my hand, it was electric,” Reibe said. “Seeing him score like that was fantastic for all of us.”
As UConn looks ahead, the hope is to have Demary back on the court soon. Meanwhile, Millender’s contribution underscores the value of seasoned players ready to seize their moment in the spotlight.