Just In: 5-star forward Returning to UConn After Withdrawing From 2024 NBA Draft
The UConn Huskies are welcoming back a key player from their championship-winning team for the 2024–25 season. Karaban has decided to rejoin the team in Storrs for the upcoming season after opting out of the 2024 NBA draft. The 21-year-old has been a crucial player for the Huskies, starting in 77 games over the last two seasons and contributing to their consecutive national championship wins. UConn made history by becoming the first program to achieve back-to-back national titles since the Florida Gators in 2006-07.
Karaban, who had an impressive performance last year, averaged 13.3 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game while shooting 49.5% from the field and 37.9% from beyond the arc. In the championship game against Purdue, he secured five points, six rebounds, and four assists.
— Alex Karaban (@AlexKaraban) May 29, 2024
Karaban shared in a written statement that despite enjoying the draft process, Storrs holds a special place in his heart, stating, “While I’ve found the draft process exciting, Storrs is my home. Let’s repeat our success.”
In an earlier conversation with college basketball analyst Andy Katz in May, Karaban described his situation as a “win-win” in deciding whether to remain in the NBA draft or return for another season at UConn with Dan Hurley. His choice to come back is particularly significant as he will be the sole returning starter from the championship-winning team of the previous year in Storrs. With players like Stephon Castle, Cam Spencer, Tristen Newton, and Donovan Clingan expected to enter the NBA, Karaban’s return positions him as a veteran leader with ample opportunities in the upcoming season.
