Connecticut Visits Xavier to Close Non-Conference Slate

CINCINNATI (Interstat) — A surging Connecticut men’s basketball team puts its eight-game win streak on the line Wednesday night in a tough road test against Xavier to close the non-conference schedule for both Big East programs.

The Huskies (12-1) travel to Cintas Center to face the Musketeers (9-4) in a New Year’s Eve showdown. UConn has not lost since a Nov. 19 setback against Arizona, navigating a gauntlet that includes wins over Kansas, Texas and Florida. Xavier seeks a signature victory to bolster its resume, coming off a hard-fought 80-77 road win at Georgetown.

Connecticut is powered by forward Alex Karaban, who is averaging 16.3 points over his last six games. He erupted for 21 points and six rebounds in the Huskies’ most recent outing, a 72-54 win at DePaul on Dec. 21. He is complemented by a deep roster; in that same game, Tarris Reed posted a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds, while guard Silas Demary nearly recorded a triple-double with 13 points, seven rebounds and eight assists.

Xavier will counter with guard Tre Carroll, who has shown high-scoring potential. Carroll dropped 30 points in a Crosstown Shootout win over Cincinnati on Dec. 5 and followed with 22 points at Georgetown. However, consistency has been an issue; he was held to seven points in a 98-57 blowout loss to Creighton on Dec. 17.

The Musketeers are 6-1 at home this season, with the lone loss being the lopsided defeat to the Bluejays. Protecting their home court against the reigning national champions, whom they will face again in Connecticut on Feb. 3, is a prime opportunity.

UConn’s defense has been stifling during its streak, holding opponents to an average of 60.6 points over the last five games. Containing Carroll and weathering the expected hostile environment will be key to extending their run into 2026.

Wednesday’s contest is the final tune-up before both teams dive fully into Big East play this weekend. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. EST.