STORRS, Conn. (AP) — Connecticut heads into its season finale against Providence facing a postseason ban, the breakup of the Big East conference, and injuries that could keep four key players on the bench.
But coach Kevin Ollie says his guys will have their heads held high and will play hard on Saturday as the Huskies (19-10, 9-8 Big East) go for their 20th win of the season.
UConn wasn’t expected to come close to that after losing five underclassmen to transfer and the NBA and seeing Hall of Fame coach Jim Calhoun retire in the offseason.
But despite having no postseason to play for, this year’s squad shocked Michigan State in the season opener and went 19-7 before losing the last three games and players Shabazz Napier, Niels Giffey and Tyler Olander to injury.
Providence (17-12, 9-8) is looking to finish the season with a winning conference record.
