n this "Way Too Early Big East Preview" episode of Locked On UConn, host Mark Zanetto is joined by Tyler Cassidy, one-half of BigEASTBarroom. They dive deep into the upcoming season, discussing potential top contenders, key players, and intriguing matchups. Whether you're a die-hard Big East fan or just looking to get ahead of the game, this episode provides an exciting and comprehensive overview of what to expect in the Big East Conference this season.

Show Notes

Intro:

Welcome to Locked On UConn, your daily source for all things UConn sports.

Available wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube as part of the Locked On Podcast Network—Your Team, Every Day.

Housekeeping:

A big thank you to all the YouTube subscribers and podcast listeners.

Encouraging listeners to download and subscribe to the audio version on Apple, Spotify, or any podcast platform.

Special thanks to the "everydayers" for their ongoing support.

Guest Introduction:

Introducing Tyler Cassidy, one half of BigEASTBarroom.

Today’s episode is a way too early preview of the Big East basketball season.

Segment 1: Top Contenders

Discussing the expected top contenders in the Big East Conference.

Breaking down teams like Villanova, Creighton, Xavier, and of course, UConn.

Predictions on who will be the standout teams based on current rosters and coaching strategies.

Segment 2: Key Players to Watch

Highlighting key players to watch in the upcoming season.

Overviews of returning stars and potential breakout players.

Tyler’s and Mark’s picks for the most impactful players in the conference.

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Segment 3: Intriguing Matchups

Analyzing anticipated matchups that could define the Big East season.

Discussing key games to mark on your calendar.

Insights into why these matchups could have significant implications for the conference standings.

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The Dan Hurley Saga with Joe Arruda

In this episode of Locked On UConn, Mark Zanetto welcomes Joe Arruda, beat reporter for the Hartford Courant, to delve into the Dan Hurley saga. They discuss Hurley's decision to stay in the college game, the reasons behind it, and the long-term implications for UConn and college basketball. Joe offers insider perspectives, analyzes the potential ripple effects on recruiting, and explores Hurley’s legacy. Whether you're a UConn fan or a college basketball enthusiast, this episode provides deep insights into one of the season’s biggest stories.

Show Notes

Intro:

Host: Mark Zanetto

Special Guest: Joe Arruda, beat reporter for the Hartford Courant

Episode focus: The Dan Hurley saga and its long-term implications for UConn and college basketball.

Housekeeping:

A big thank you to all the YouTube subscribers and podcast listeners.

Encouraging listeners to download and subscribe to the audio version on Apple, Spotify, or their preferred podcast platform.

Special thanks to the "everydayers" for their ongoing support.

Segment 1: Setting the Stage

Brief overview of Dan Hurley's decision to stay at UConn despite interest from the NBA.

Introduction of Joe Arruda and his credentials as a beat reporter for the Hartford Courant.

Key Questions:

What were the major factors influencing Hurley's decision to stay at UConn?

How close was Hurley to leaving for the NBA, particularly the Lakers?

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Segment 2: Long-Term Implications for UConn

Impact on UConn’s Future:

How does Hurley’s decision impact the program’s stability and growth?

What are the immediate benefits for UConn in terms of recruiting and team morale?

Recruiting Edge:

Analysis of how staying at UConn strengthens Hurley’s pitch to prospective recruits.

Insights into current and future recruiting targets for UConn.

Key Questions:

What kind of long-term stability does Hurley bring to UConn by staying?

Who are some key recruits that might be swayed by Hurley’s commitment?

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Segment 3: Broader Impact on College Basketball

Hurley's Legacy:

Discussion on what Hurley’s decision means for his legacy in college basketball.

Comparisons to other high-profile coaches who have made similar choices.

College Basketball Landscape:

How Hurley’s decision might influence other college coaches facing NBA offers.

Potential ripple effects across other college programs and conferences.

Key Questions:

How does Hurley's decision affect his legacy compared to other college coaches?

What implications does this decision have for the broader landscape of college basketball?

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Segment 4: Anecdotes and Insights

Insider Stories:

Joe Arruda shares behind-the-scenes stories and anecdotes about Dan Hurley and the UConn program.

Key moments from the past season that encapsulate Hurley’s impact on the team.

Looking Ahead:

What to watch for in the next season with Hurley at the helm.

Predictions on UConn’s performance and potential championship aspirations.

Key Questions:

Can you share any unique stories or insights about Hurley and his coaching style?

What are your predictions for UConn next season with Hurley leading the charge?

Outro:

Thanking Joe Arruda for joining the show and sharing his insights.

Reminder to subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and stay connected.

Closing: "Stay locked in, stay connected, make sure your toughness meter is always rising, and as always, Go Huskies!"

Action Items for Listeners:

Subscribe: Click the subscribe button on YouTube and follow the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen.

Review: Drop a 5-star review to help grow the Locked On UConn audience.

Engage: Follow on social media and join the conversation.

Tune in for an in-depth look at the Dan Hurley saga and its implications. Go Huskies! #UConnHuskies #DanHurley #CollegeBasketball #RecruitingNews #LockedOnUConn #BasketballPodcast #SportsTalk #JoeArruda #HuskiesHoops #GoHuskies

Locked On UConn - The Impact of Dan Hurley’s Decision

In this episode of Locked On UConn, Mark Zanetto welcomes basketball insider Adam Zagoria to discuss Dan Hurley's monumental decision to stay at UConn amidst offers from the Lakers. They dive into the implications for UConn’s future, the ripple effects on current players and recruiting, and what this means for the Big East powerhouse. Plus, they play a fun segment of "Who Do You Want?" and explore intriguing hypotheticals around Hurley's decision. A must-listen for any UConn Huskies fan!

Show Notes

Intro:

Host: Mark Zanetto

Special Guest: Adam Zagoria, a prominent basketball insider and contributor to publications like The New York Times, Forbes Sports, and NJ.com. He also runs ZagsBlog.com.

Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply.

Segment 1: Setting the Stage

Welcoming Adam Zagoria and highlighting the big week for UConn amidst major sports events.

Discussing whether anyone is having a better week than Dan Hurley and his UConn Huskies.

Key Questions:

Did the dynamics of the Lakers’ franchise ever make you think Hurley would leave?

What does Hurley's decision mean for UConn’s future?

How will Hurley’s commitment impact UConn’s recruiting?

Sponsor: Gametime

Overview of the Gametime app and its features.

Personal experience using Gametime for NBA Finals tickets.

Special offer: Use code LockedOnCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase.

Segment 2: Ripple Effects

Impact of Hurley's decision on current players and team morale.

Insights and rumors about the team meeting where Hurley shared his decision.

How UConn will use this decision as a recruiting pitch.

Key Questions:

How will UConn augment their recruiting pitch with Hurley’s decision?

Discussing the big names UConn might be targeting, such as AJ Dybantsa and Maleek Thomas.

Hypothetical: Who would have been the interim coach if Hurley had left for the Lakers?

Sponsor: Locked On Sports Today

Promoting Locked On’s 24/7 sports streaming channel.

Encouraging listeners to switch to Locked On Sports Today for top sports stories without all the shouting.

Segment 3: Who Do You Want?

Fun game segment with Adam Zagoria: "Who Do You Want?"

Travel companions (max 4 people)

Tennis partner

Pickleball partner

Security guard

Bonus Question:

If someone from UConn had to start their own website and become a writer/commentator, who would it be?

Sponsor: Locked On Sports Today

Promoting Locked On’s 24/7 national sports streaming channel available on YouTube and Amazon Fire TV.

Outro:

Thanking Adam Zagoria for joining the show.

Reminder to subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and stay connected.

Closing: "Stay locked in, stay connected, make sure your toughness meter is always rising, and as always, Go Huskies!"

Action Items for Listeners:

Subscribe: Click the subscribe button on YouTube and follow the podcast on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen.

Review: Drop a 5-star review to help grow the Locked On UConn audience.

Engage: Follow on social media and join the conversation.

Stay tuned for more updates, insights, and exciting discussions about UConn basketball. Go Huskies! #UConnHuskies #CollegeBasketball #DanHurley #BigEastBasketball #BasketballPodcast #SportsTalk #LockedOnUConn #BasketballInsider #AdamZagoria #RecruitingNews