Dan Hurley isn't shy about embracing the villain role, especially when March Madness is in full swing and UConn is eyeing another deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
Appearing on The Pat McAfee Show, Hurley mixed humor with a touch of swagger as the Huskies gear up for their Sweet 16 showdown against Michigan State.
“A lot of people would like to see me go under and not come back up,” Hurley quipped, embracing his reputation. It’s a persona he’s comfortable with, particularly when his team is thriving on the national stage.
Confidence is running high in the UConn camp. “We play our best ball against out-of-conference opponents,” Hurley noted. “Once you get out of the first weekend, it feels like: watch out Huskies.”
After missing out on the title picture last year, Hurley is relishing the return to contention. “Last year we felt like the little kid that didn’t get invited to the birthday party,” he admitted.
But this season is different. “This squad has been a fun group to coach.
Being back in contention feels great.”
Hurley believes in the potential of his team. “We’ve shown a high ceiling and we’ve beaten some good teams,” he said, eagerly anticipating the upcoming clash in D.C.
The matchup against Coach Izzo’s Michigan State is one Hurley respects deeply. “I’ve tried to model my program on how hard they play,” he shared, highlighting his admiration for Izzo’s coaching style.
Hurley’s approach balances high standards with genuine investment in his players. “We do a lot of things in society today that make young men weaker,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of setting high expectations.
This philosophy shines through in players like senior Alex Karaban, whom Hurley praised as a coach on the floor. “His mind for the game is head coach level,” Hurley said.
“I’ll never coach another player like him. He’s had the greatest career of any player at UConn.”
McAfee was impressed by Hurley’s praise for Karaban, acknowledging the impact of Hurley’s words.
Hurley’s mix of intensity and honesty may ruffle some feathers, but as the Huskies head into the Sweet 16, he’s unapologetic about his approach. The Huskies are back in the hunt, and Hurley wouldn’t have it any other way.