Welcome to another exciting episode of Locked On UConn! It’s Free for All Friday, and we’re diving into our Top 10 College Basketball Players, ranked from 10 to 1. Join us as we break down each player’s strengths, contributions, and why they deserve their spot on the list. From Hunter Dickinson at Kansas to Johni Broome at Auburn, we cover the best of the best.

Show Notes:

1. Introduction

• Welcome to Free for All Friday on Locked On UConn.

• Reminder to subscribe on YouTube and follow on podcast platforms.

2. Housekeeping

• Encourage YouTube subscribers to download the audio version.

• Request for 5-star reviews to help grow the Locked On UConn audience.

3. Sponsor: FanDuel

• Information on FanDuel’s summer offers and daily boosts.

4. Top 10 Coaches in College Basketball

• Discussion on top coaches like Bill Self, Scott Drew, and Tom Izzo.

5. Sponsor: eBay Motors

• Promotion for eBay Motors and their offerings for car enthusiasts.

6. Top 10 Players in College Basketball (10-6)

• Number 10: Hunter Dickinson, Center, Kansas

• Dominant presence in the paint, double-double threat, defensive edge.

• Number 9: Aiden Mahaney, Shooting Guard/Point Guard, UConn

• Dynamic playmaker, clutch performer, versatile guard.

• Number 8: RJ Davis, Point Guard, North Carolina

• Exceptional ball-handling, playmaking skills, defensive tenacity.

• Number 7: Mark Sears, Point Guard, Alabama

• Explosive scorer, strong defensive presence, versatile.

• Number 6: Jackson Robinson, Point Guard/Shooting Guard/Wing, Kentucky

• Athletic, versatile, effective on both ends of the floor.

7. Sponsor: The Feel Good Lab

• Testimonial and promotion for The Feel Good Lab’s wellness products.

8. Top 10 Players in College Basketball (5-1)

• Number 5: Ryan Kalkbrenner, Center, Creighton

• Impressive shot-blocker, defensive presence, reliable scorer.

• Number 4: Qadari Richmond, Point Guard/Shooting Guard, St. John’s

• Strong defensive skills, adept ball handler, versatile.

• Number 3: Alex Karaban, Power Forward, UConn

• High basketball IQ, versatile scorer, strong defender.

• Number 2: Johnell Davis, Shooting Guard/Point Guard, Michigan

• Dynamic scorer, defensive tenacity, versatile backcourt player.

• Number 1: Johni Broome, Wing, Auburn

• Versatile scorer, strong defender, comprehensive skill set.

9. Locked On Sports Today

• Information about the Locked On Sports Today 24/7 streaming channel.

10. Conclusion

• Recap of the episode.

• Encourage listeners to stay connected and locked in.

• Signature sign-off: “Stay locked in, stay connected, make sure your toughness meter is always rising, and as always, Go Huskies!”

Hashtags

#UConn #Huskies #CollegeBasketball #NCAA #LockedOnUConn #Top10Players #Basketball #FanDuel #eBayMotors #TheFeelGoodLab #FreeForAllFriday #BasketballPodcast #UConnNation #GoHuskies

“Will Alex Karaban Win National Player of the Year?”

@LockedOnUConn

In this episode of Locked On UConn, host Mark Zanetto dives into the potential of UConn’s own Alex Karaban becoming a contender for the National Player of the Year (NPOY) award. Special guest Dan Meehan, owner and founder of the EXIT 68 brand, joins the show to discuss Karaban’s chances and the competition he faces from other top players like RJ Davis, Mark Sears, Johni Broome, Ryan Kalkbrenner, and Hunter Dickinson. The episode also covers the support from the UConn community, the importance of subscribing and following the podcast, and a special segment on the Gametime app for last-minute ticket deals. Additionally, Mark and Dan share their thoughts on the best UConn players of all time and discuss the latest in sports news on the Locked On Sports Today channel.

Show Notes:

1. Introduction and Welcome

• Thanks for making Locked On UConn your first listen every day.

• Reminder to subscribe on YouTube and follow on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

2. Housekeeping

• Encouragement to download the audio version to help grow the Locked On UConn audience.

• Request for 5-star reviews to trigger referrals and attract new listeners.

3. Sponsor: Gametime

• Details on how to use the Gametime app for last-minute MLB ticket deals.

• Personal anecdote about enjoying MLB games and using Gametime for ticket purchases.

4. Main Topic: Alex Karaban’s NPOY Chances

• Introduction of guest Dan Meehan from EXIT 68.

• Discussion on whether Alex Karaban should be considered a contender for NPOY.

• Analysis of the competition, including RJ Davis, Mark Sears, Johni Broome, Ryan Kalkbrenner, and Hunter Dickinson.

• Mark’s perspective on Karaban’s strengths and chances in the NPOY race.

5. Gametime Ad Read

• Encouragement to use Gametime for MLB tickets and details on app features like Flash Deals and Zone Deals.

6. Discussion with Dan Meehan

• Dan’s thoughts on the best UConn players of all time.

• Discussion about the EXIT 68 brand, which offers a variety of apparel and merchandise celebrating UConn sports and culture. Collections include themes like “3PEAT,” “CARDIAC KEMBA,” and “IRON SHARPENS IRON.” More details are available on their website, EXIT 68.

7. Locked On Sports Today

• Information about the Locked On Sports Today channel on YouTube and Amazon Fire TV.

• Promotion of the 24/7 sports streaming channel for top sports stories and expert analysis.

8. Conclusion

• Recap of the episode and final thoughts.

• Reminder to stay connected and stay locked in.

• Signature sign-off: “Stay locked in, stay connected, make sure your toughness meter is always rising, and as always, Go Huskies!”

In this episode of Locked On UConn, we discuss why the UConn men’s basketball team is criminally underrated for the 24/25 season and why that’s a strategic advantage for Coach Dan Hurley. Despite their back-to-back national titles, UConn isn’t receiving the recognition they deserve. We’ll explore how Hurley can use this underestimation to fuel his team’s motivation and draw parallels with a recent storyline in the Netflix Show, Cobra Kai.

Show Notes:

Introduction:

• Welcome and housekeeping

• Encourage YouTube subscribers to download the audio version on podcast platforms

• Request for 5-star reviews to help grow the audience

• Sponsor mention: Gametime

Segment 1: UConn’s Criminally Underrated Status

• Discussion Points:

• Despite back-to-back national titles, UConn is not getting the recognition it deserves.

• Key returning players and new high-impact recruits.

• Parallels with Cobra Kai’s underdog story.

• Hurley’s ability to use the underdog mentality for motivation.

• Insights:

• Media labels and historical bias: Notre Dame Football, Duke Basketball, Kansas Basketball.

• Political parallels: How oversimplified labels shape perceptions.

Ad Break:

• Sponsor mention: Gametime

• Highlight the benefits of using Gametime for last-minute MLB game tickets.

• Promo code: LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off the first purchase.

Segment 2: Media Labels and UConn’s Underdog Spirit

• Discussion Points:

• Persistent media labels and their impact on team perception.

• UConn’s journey from underdog to champion under Jim Calhoun and Dan Hurley.

• The challenge and opportunity of being underestimated.

• Insights:

• Comparison to political labels and their influence on public perception.

• Hurley’s strategy to leverage the underdog narrative for team cohesion and motivation.

Ad Break:

• Promotion for Locked On Sports Today, a 24/7 sports streaming channel on YouTube and Amazon Fire TV.

Bottom Line:

• Media labels simplify narratives, often ignoring current realities.

• For UConn, being underestimated serves as both a challenge and an opportunity.

• Dan Hurley can use this narrative to drive continuous improvement and excellence within the team.

• Analogy: Like a chef who publicly showcases their culinary skills but privately uses past critiques to drive innovation and perfection.

Conclusion:

• Recap of key points.

• Encourage listeners to subscribe, follow, and leave reviews.

• Teaser for the next episode.

Outro:

• Mention of Locked On Sports Today’s availability on YouTube and Amazon Fire TV.

• Sign-off: “Stay locked in, stay connected, make sure your toughness meter is always rising, and as always, Go Huskies!”

Hashtags:

#UConn #LockedOnUConn #DanHurley #CollegeBasketball #MauiInvitational #NCAABasketball #UConnBasketball #Huskies #SportsPodcast #BigEast #NCAA #netflix #cobrakai

In today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we delve into an exciting debate: is there a better coach in the country, in any sport, than Dan Hurley? We welcome Jeff D. Lowe from Barstool, host of The Dozen Trivia, Emmy winner, and proud Connecticut native, to discuss Hurley’s impact and potential. We also chat about the UConn alumni team’s performance in the TBT, explore memorable MLB game moments with Gametime, and highlight the new 24/7 sports streaming channel, Locked On Sports Today.

Show Notes:

Introduction:

• Opening Remarks: “Is there a better coach in the country, in any sport right now, than Dan Hurley?”

• Housekeeping:

• Encourage YouTube subscribers to also download the audio version on Apple, Spotify, or other podcast platforms.

• Request listeners to leave a 5-star review to help grow the audience.

• Mention today’s episode sponsor: Gametime (use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase).

Main Segment: Interview with Jeff D. Lowe

• Guest Introduction: Jeff D. Lowe from Barstool, host of The Dozen Trivia, Emmy winner, and Connecticut native.

• Discussion Points:

• Is there a better coach than Dan Hurley in any sport right now?

• Did Jeff ever get nervous about Hurley potentially joining the Lakers?

• If advising Dan Hurley, what would Jeff suggest he do differently as a pro coach?

Gametime Segment:

• Personal Experience: Mark shares a memorable MLB game experience.

• Gametime Benefits:

• Easy ticket purchasing.

• Prices drop closer to game time.

• Highlights upcoming deals for Yankees vs. Red Sox and Mets games.

• Features like seat view previews and no surprise fees.

• Special offers like Flash Deals and Zone Deals.

UConn Alumni and TBT Discussion:

• Stars of Storrs:

• Who else would be exciting to see join the team? Mention Rudy Gay as a big name.

• Discuss Niels Giffey’s interest but Olympic commitments, potential players like Shabazz Napier and Kemba Walker.

UConn Twitter and Team USA Effort:

• Twitter Engagement:

• UConn Twitter top ten discussion.

• Jeff’s Mt. Rushmore and GOAT picks.

• Team USA: Explain why it’s okay for Team USA to give zero effort.

Locked On Sports Today:

• Promotion:

• Highlight the new 24/7 sports streaming channel on YouTube and Amazon Fire TV.

• Benefits of switching from traditional sports channels.

Closing:

• Recap: Summary of today’s topics.

• Call to Action: Encourage listeners to subscribe, follow, and review.

• Sign-off: “Stay locked in, stay connected, make sure your toughness meter is always rising, and as always, Go Huskies!”

Outro:

• Thank You: Appreciate listeners for tuning in.

• Next Episode Teaser: Brief mention of what’s coming up in the next episode.

#UConn #LockedOnUConn #DanHurley #MLB #Gametime #BarstoolSports #TheDozenTrivia #TBT #UConnBasketball #Huskies #SportsPodcast #UConnNation #CollegeBasketball #SportsTalk #PodcastLife

Show Summary:

It’s a Free For All Friday on Locked On UConn! Join Mark Zanetto as he discusses the latest in UConn athletics, featuring a special guest, BigLarryForearm, one of UConn Twitter’s shining stars. They dive into the impact of Chris Smith, current team vibes, and more. Plus, learn about amazing last-minute ticket deals with Gametime and wellness tips from The Feel Good Lab. Don’t miss out on today’s exciting episode!

Show Notes:

Cold Open:

“It’s a Free For All Friday… You’re Locked On UConn.”

Intro:

Thanks for making Locked On UConn your first listen every day. We are free and available wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube as part of the Locked On Podcast Network—Your Team, Every Day.

Housekeeping:

• YouTube support has been amazing.

• Encourage subscribers to download the audio version on podcast platforms.

• Click subscribe on YouTube and follow on Apple, Spotify, or other podcast platforms.

• Support means everything; leave a 5-star review to help grow the audience.

• Today’s episode is brought to you by Gametime.

Segment 1: Special Guest - BigLarryForearm

• Discuss the impact of Chris Smith on UConn athletics.

• Revisit Larry’s UConn Twitter Goat ballot.

• Conversation on the influence of Chris Smith and his ranking in the top 10.

• Discussion on UConn’s blue blood status and the impact on current coaching.

Segment 2: Gametime Ad

• Share personal experiences with MLB games.

• Highlight the ease of using Gametime for last-minute ticket deals.

• Talk about the features of the Gametime app: view from seats, all-in pricing, flash deals, zone deals, and lowest price guarantee.

Segment 3: The Feel Good Lab Ad

• Discuss how top athletes like Cam Spencer use The Feel Good Lab for wellness.

• Share personal experiences with The Feel Good Lab products.

• Promote plant-based pain relief, high-quality supplements, and diagnostic tests for inflammation.

• Use code “CAMSPENCER” for a discount and donation to Bleeding Blue For Good.

Segment 4: Stars of Storrs in TBT

• Talk about the new tournament team representing UConn in The Basketball Tournament (TBT).

• Provide a link for the game and broadcast information.

• Discuss team members and excitement for seeing former players in action.

• Debate who should take the last shot in an Elam ending scenario.

Segment 5: Locked On Sports Today

• Promote the new 24/7 sports streaming channel on YouTube and Amazon Fire TV.

• Highlight the benefits of Locked On Sports Today for sports fans.

Conclusion:

• Recap the good vibes around the current team and potential recruits.

• Mention upcoming season insights from Larry.

• End with a motivational message and traditional sign-off: “Stay locked in, stay connected, make sure your toughness meter is always rising, and as always, Go Huskies!”

Outro:

• Thank listeners for tuning in.

• Encourage subscriptions and reviews.

• Mention the availability of Locked On UConn on all podcast platforms and YouTube.

In today’s episode of Locked On UConn, we cover the exciting journey of the Stars of Storrs as they prepare for the Pittsburgh TBT Regional. With nearly 200 fans watching, former UConn basketball legends showcased their skills in an open practice, creating a buzz of excitement. We delve into interviews with players like Jerome Dyson and Jeff Adrien, who express their enthusiasm and team chemistry. We also highlight the significant support from Marc D’Amelio and the D’Amelio Huskies Collective, ensuring the team is well-prepared and motivated. Finally, we shift our focus to current UConn star Jaylin Stewart and his upcoming season, along with some exciting announcements about our show schedule.

Show Notes:

Intro:

• Welcome and appreciation for listeners

• Encouragement to subscribe and follow on all platforms

• Importance of downloading the audio version to support the channel

FanDuel Ad Read:

• Promotion of FanDuel’s daily boosts and bonuses for all customers

Segment 1: Stars of Storrs Preparation for TBT

• Nearly 200 fans attended the open practice at Brien McMahon gymnasium

• Fans enjoyed scrimmages and lined up for autographs from UConn legends

• Jerome Dyson highlights team cohesiveness and shared goals

Interview Clip: Jerome Dyson

• “We all know each other, and I think that will be one of our advantages…”

Narrator:

• The Stars of Storrs face the Herkimer Originals in the opening game on Saturday at 6 p.m. at the Petersen Events Center

• $1 million grand prize for the winners, with the championship game on August 4th in Philadelphia on FOX

Segment 2: Team Chemistry and Readiness

• Featuring UConn greats like Jerome Dyson, Ryan Boatright, DeAndre Daniels, Joey Calcaterra, and Jeff Adrien, coached by Chris Smith

• Jeff Adrien and Chris Smith discuss the team’s good energy and readiness

Interview Clip: Jeff Adrien

• “I am feeling the vibe and the good energy…”

Interview Clip: Chris Smith

• “It’s going really smoothly…”

Segment 3: Formation and Support from Marc D’Amelio

• Marc D’Amelio and the D’Amelio Huskies Collective’s role in team formation

• Red carpet treatment for the players, including practices, team dinners, and meeting Coach Dan Hurley

Interview Clip: Marc D’Amelio

• “In my head, I always imagined getting a team of these players together…”

Interview Clip: Chris Smith

• “Marc is the man…”

Segment 4: Player Reflections on Returning to UConn

• Players cherish returning to Storrs and visiting Gampel Pavilion

Interview Clip: Jeff Adrien

• “Yesterday was a special day…”

Narrator:

• Stars of Storrs hope for more special days, potentially a $1 million payday

• Stay tuned for more updates on their TBT journey

Shift to Current Team: Jaylin Stewart

• Discussion about Jaylin Stewart and his upcoming season

FanDuel Ad Read:

• Promotion of FanDuel’s daily boosts and bonuses

Announcement:

• Upcoming show and schedule, including the debut of Football Friday on August 16th

Locked On Sports Today Ad Read:

• Promotion of Locked On Sports Today, a 24/7 sports streaming channel on YouTube and Amazon Fire TV

Closing:

• Thanking listeners

• Encouragement to stay connected and subscribe

• Signature sign-off: Stay locked in, stay connected, and Go Huskies!

This has been another episode of Locked On UConn. I’m your host, Mark Zanetto, asking you to stay locked in, stay connected, make sure your toughness meter is always rising, and as always, Go Huskies!

Welcome to Locked On UConn! In today’s episode, we explore UConn’s recruiting strategy in the NIL era. We discuss why players list UConn in their top choices, even when it may not be a perfect fit, and insights from high major D1 coaches on casting a wide net in recruiting. We also dive into the role of the transfer portal and NIL deals in shaping modern recruitment strategies.

Show Notes:

Intro:

• Welcome and appreciation for listeners

• Importance of subscribing and leaving reviews

• Sponsored by FanDuel

Segment 1: Casting a Wide Net

• Strategy of targeting both above and below level recruits

• High likelihood of player transfers and its impact

• Example cases of successful transfers (Joey C, Tristen, Cam, Aiden, Tarris)

Segment 2: Unlimited Visits

• Strategy of junior visits vs. senior serious targets

• Impact on recruitment and making lasting impressions

Segment 3: Transfer Portal Strategy

• Key questions: Who can we get involved with? Who did we previously recruit? What are our roster needs?

• Shift to a more transactional recruitment approach

Segment 4: NIL and Money Negotiations

• Role of NIL deals in recruitment

• Ethical and practical implications

• Real-life examples of NIL deals influencing decisions

Recruiting Updates:

• Discuss the BIG BOARD and current offers

• Highlights of notable recruits like Meleek Thomas and AJ Deebansa

• Offers and signings from the 2023 and 2024 classes

Closing:

• Recap of key points

• Encouragement to subscribe and leave reviews

• Thanks to sponsors and listeners

• Signature sign-off: Stay locked in, stay connected, and Go Huskies!