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As the NCAA basketball tournament, commonly referred to as March Madness, approaches in nine days, the University of Connecticut sets its sights on a historic achievement: securing a third consecutive national championship title, a feat that hasn’t been accomplished by any men’s team since the era of Richard Nixon. Rather than exuding unchecked enthusiasm, UConn’s head coach, Dan Hurley, embodies a more complex, reserved demeanor amid what has been a tumultuous season for the Huskies.
Dan Hurley, 52, is recognized as an elite basketball coach. Known for being both assertive and contemplative, he combines brash confidence with a tendency toward introspection, showcasing a unique coaching style that highlights his intense drive to maximize his players’ potential.
Reflecting on his approach, Hurley describes competitive sports in stark terms: “It’s a zero-sum game. The one that wins experiences temporary relief, while the loser faces a deep sense of disappointment.” His intense focus is evident in his rituals, including burning sage before the season to dispel any negative energy and using holy water, symbolizing his belief in seeking favor from the basketball gods.
This dedication to superstition illustrates Hurley’s commitment to creating a positive environment for success. In November, he performed a series of pre-season rituals, including placing offerings under the bleachers—a testament to his unique approach to coaching.
Fast forward to this season, and Hurley describes it as a blend of highs and lows: “Unlike the last two seasons, it’s been very frustrating. It’s a mix of relief and suffering.” The season commenced with optimism, but complications arose quickly, exemplified by a costly technical foul during a critical game at the Maui Invitational, leading to a series of setbacks for the team.
After his challenging start, Hurley received advice from Geno Auriemma, the esteemed women’s coach at UConn, who advised him against defining success solely by championships. This perspective serves as a reminder that coaching encompasses fostering relationships and personal growth in players, a lesson Hurley took to heart amidst his frustrations.
Despite a string of adversities, UConn managed to rally, achieving an impressive eight-game winning streak after Maui. However, Hurley acknowledges that the unpredictability of the season has made him reminisce about the ease with which his previous teams dominated the tournament, winning every game by a substantial margin.
Hurley’s coaching philosophy diverges from traditional approaches found in most colleges, as he embraces a style inspired more by European basketball, focusing on off-ball movement, precision passing, and strategic screening. This varies from the prevalent trend of adopting offensive schemes from professional leagues.
The legacy of the Hurley family in basketball is substantial. With his father, Bob Hurley, a Hall of Fame high school coach, and his brother Bobby, an acclaimed collegiate player, Dan Hurley feels the weight of expectations. He candidly admits to feeling overshadowed during his playing days at Seton Hall, a struggle that fueled his drive to find redemption through coaching.
Now, thriving at UConn, he expresses his desire to contribute to the family’s distinguished basketball lineage rather than view it as a competition against his father and brother. “We’re all contributing to this legacy, and I want to be part of that story,” Hurley explains.
His success has not gone unnoticed; the Los Angeles Lakers expressed interest in hiring him last summer, but Hurley opted to remain with UConn, affirming his belief that college basketball suits him better, despite the challenges this season has posed.
At home, Hurley’s wife, Andrea, plays a crucial role in keeping his competitive edge in check. Her straightforward mindset helps temper his intense passion for the game, providing a necessary balance in their household.
Undoubtedly, the landscape of college basketball is evolving, with many players considering transfers as they navigate their careers. Hurley notes that a significant portion of his roster is exploring opportunities in the transfer portal, highlighting the current volatility of the sport.
As March Madness looms, Hurley remains cautious yet hopeful. “There’s a pathway to achieving a third championship,” he insists, but acknowledges that the absence of another title would carry a heavy weight. Even if the outcome should not reflect the growth and progress made, he would still view the season as a failure without that tangible success.
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