In Monday night’s title game showdown between UConn and Purdue, the Huskies strategically left Donovan Clingan to fend for himself against Purdue’s towering center, Zach Edey. Despite Edey’s dominance in the paint, UConn’s primary focus was on shutting down Purdue’s perimeter shooters.
Throughout the game, UConn effectively chased Purdue’s shooters off the arc, limiting one of the nation’s best 3-point shooting teams to just one made 3-pointer. This defensive prowess was crucial in securing UConn’s 75-60 victory and their second consecutive national championship title.
While Edey managed to rack up an impressive 37 points, UConn’s defensive strategy forced him to take 25 shots to achieve that, and he went scoreless for a significant stretch as UConn gained control of the game.
Led by freshman Stephon Castle’s relentless defense on Purdue’s point guard Braden Smith, UConn’s defenders swarmed the 3-point line, denying Purdue’s shooters open looks. This stifling defense held Purdue to a mere 1-of-7 shooting from beyond the arc, a remarkable feat against a team known for its proficiency from long range.
Despite Edey’s individual performance, Purdue’s supporting cast struggled to make an impact offensively, with UConn’s guards outscoring Purdue’s guards 55-17. UConn’s defensive strategy effectively neutralized Purdue’s perimeter threats, leaving them unable to capitalize on their usual strengths.
In the end, UConn’s commitment to defensive excellence paid off, earning them their sixth national championship title and marking the NCAA’s first repeat championship since 2006-07.