In a commanding performance, top-ranked UConn solidified their lead in the race for the Big East regular-season title by routing No. 4 Marquette 81-53 on Saturday. Donovan Clingan led the charge with 17 points and 10 rebounds, supported by Tristen Newton's 15 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists. Cam Spencer and Hassan Diarra also contributed 14 points each to the Huskies' victory.
The Huskies, now 24-2 overall and 14-1 in conference play, are on an impressive 14-game winning streak. The win against Marquette (19-6, 10-4) gives UConn a three-game lead in the loss column over the second-place Golden Eagles with five games remaining in the regular season.
From the opening tip-off, UConn displayed defensive prowess, creating a 16-point halftime lead and extending it to 18 early in the second half. Their dominance was evident as they surged to a 29-point advantage, never allowing Marquette to find their rhythm offensively.
Marquette, who entered the game with an eight-game winning streak, struggled against UConn's stifling defense. The Golden Eagles were held to just 37% shooting from the field and connected on only 5 of 23 attempts from beyond the arc, a far cry from their season averages.
Looking ahead, Marquette will face DePaul at home in a three-game stretch, aiming to rebound from the loss to UConn. The Huskies, on the other hand, are eyeing their first Big East regular-season title since 2005-06 and will travel to Nebraska to take on No. 17 Creighton in their next matchup on Tuesday night.
As the season enters its final stretch, UConn's dominant performance against a top-ranked opponent showcases their potential as they aim to capture the Big East crown.
