You know how it is during the really big games at Freedom Hall, when everyone is into the game? Intensity among fans is through the roof. You can’t hear yourself think, much less talk. Even the gray-haired folks are going berserk. That’s how it’s going to be at the XL Center in Hartford tonight.

The U of L game is a huge one for UConn. Husky fans undoubtedly envision a rapid return to the glory days, eager to add to the NCAA basketball championships they earned in 1998 and 2004. UConn won Big East Tournament titles in 2004, 2002, 1999, 1998, 1996 and 1990. They’ve been there, they expect to return.

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As was obvious in the win over a 17-2 Indiana team, this UConn team takes defense seriously. They will be much more aggressive at home, count on it. The Huskies are also a very unselfish team, with five players hitting for double figures in the IU win. Craig Autrie led all scorers with 15 points, A. J. Price 14, and Hasheem Thabeet 12. Jeff Adrien and Stanley Robinson each tallied double-doubles with 11 points and 11 rebounds. Two players, including one starter, averaging 20 points between them, missed the IU game.

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By Charlie Springer

Charlie Springer is a former Louisville editor and sportswriter, a public affairs consultant, a UofL grad and longtime fan.