The SQ Deep Dive: Unpacking UConn's 2023-24 Basketball Schedule
Posted at: 9/15/2023
Greetings, basketball fans! As the new NCAA season inches closer, we couldn't be more excited to dissect UConn's 2023-24 schedule. Armed with ShotQuality's data-driven insights, we'll offer a unique angle to help you understand what to expect from the defending national champions this year.
If you want to take a trip down memory lane and relive key moments from UConn's run from pre-season unranked to national champion grab some popcorn and give this a watch 🍿
Setting the Stage
Fresh off a national title and a 31-8 record, UConn aims to maintain their momentum into the 2023-24 season. But the road ahead won't be a cakewalk, especially with a non-conference slate that includes matchups against powerhouse programs like Kansas and Gonzaga.
The Non-Conference Gauntlet
Kansas: A Matchup of Champions
One of the most anticipated games is set for Dec. 1, where UConn faces Kansas at Allen Fieldhouse. In terms of SQ metrics, UConn's efficient 3PT shooting (ranked 12th last season) could be a difference-maker here. Last season, UConn defeated Kansas in the NCAA tournament, and this will be a highly anticipated rematch.
Gonzaga: The Elite Eight Redux
On Dec. 15, UConn will fly across the country to square off against Gonzaga. This is a rematch of last year's Elite Eight, a game UConn won convincingly 82-54. Based on ShotQuality's metrics, UConn's Good Defense Against Shots Attacking the Rim (ranked 16th last season) could again play a pivotal role.
The Empire Classic
UConn will also be a part of the Empire Classic, taking on Indiana and potentially Texas or Louisville. SQ's data shows that UConn excels in Good Offensive Rebounding (ranked 3rd last season), which could tip the scales in these high-stakes matchups.
Big East Battles
Seton Hall: A Trip Down Memory Lane
Big East play for UConn kicks off on Dec. 20 against Seton Hall. In the 2022-23 season, UConn had mixed results against Seton Hall, losing one game by a single point while winning the other comfortably. With a Good Defensive Rebounding ranking of 31st last season, UConn should be well-prepared for this match.
St. John's: The Homecoming
Rick Pitino returns to UConn when the Huskies host St. John's on Dec. 23. Last season, UConn lost to St. John's, but SQ metrics reveal that they had a higher SQ Win% of 66%. Expect a riveting game!
SQ's Verdict
Based on last season's metrics and SQ Records, UConn appears to be well-positioned to tackle this challenging schedule. Their Good Passing (ranked 8th last season) and Few 3PT Attempts Allowed on Defense (ranked 15th) give them a robust all-around game that should serve them well.
Final Thoughts
UConn has a monumental task ahead of them, but if last season's performance is any indicator, they're up for the challenge. We're stoked to see how the season unfolds, and you can bet we'll be right here, crunching the numbers and giving you the ShotQuality take on each twist and turn.
Until then, keep your eyes on the court and your stats at the ready. Let's ball! 🏀📊
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