Alex Karaban and Silas Demary Jr. headline the UConn Huskies’ second game of the season as they host the UMass Lowell River Hawks on Friday. Karaban, one of UConn’s most reliable scorers, and Demary Jr., a transfer guard, are expected to play major roles as the Huskies look to stay sharp early in the new campaign.
UConn opened the season with a dominant win over New Haven, flashing its depth and talent across all positions. Karaban posted a double-double while Demary Jr. displayed command at both ends. UConn enters the game as massive favorites, facing a UMass Lowell team that is undergoing heavy roster turnover.
This matchup will test UMass Lowell’s ability to handle elite competition. UConn, meanwhile, will aim to build rhythm, sharpen its rotations, and maintain its defensive intensity before heading into tougher non-conference games.
UConn Huskies vs UMass Lowell Prediction
UConn is expected to control this game from start to finish. Sportsbooks have the Huskies favored by more than 30 points, reflecting the wide talent gap. The Huskies’ offense looks balanced, led by Karaban’s scoring versatility and Solo Ball’s perimeter shooting.
UMass Lowell began its season with a big win over Rivier, scoring 107 points. However, that result came against limited opposition. Against UConn, the River Hawks will face a defense that closes space quickly and forces turnovers.
Expect UConn to dominate inside, win the rebounding battle comfortably, and push the pace whenever possible. Even if coach Dan Hurley decides to rotate heavily in the second half, the Huskies’ depth should keep them in full control.
UConn Huskies and UMass Lowell Starting Lineup
UConn Huskies Starting Lineup
- PG: Silas Demary Jr.
- SG: Solo Ball
- SF: Jaylin Stewart
- PF: Alex Karaban
- C: Eric Reibe
UMass Lowell River Hawks Starting Lineup
- G: Austin Green
- G: JJ Massaquoi
- F: Khalil Farmer
- F: Jared Frey
- F: Shawn Simmons II
Injury Report
UConn remains without freshman guard Braylon Mullins, sidelined with an ankle injury expected to keep him out several more weeks. In October, ESPN reported that the five-star recruit injured his ankle during a practice and was expected to be out for six weeks.
Tarris Reed Jr. is listed as a game-time decision due to a lingering hamstring issue.
“We can’t bring him back prematurely and have the hamstring injury linger, because we can’t do this without him. He’s a focal point,” Dan Hurley SAID about Reed. “He’s practiced live for four straight days, and then [today’s] decision was made by the medical staff.”
The rest of the roster is healthy and available. UMass Lowell enters the contest with no major injuries reported. Their focus will be on integrating their new players and staying composed against UConn’s pressure defense.
UConn should have full control of this matchup from the opening tip. With Karaban’s scoring and Demary Jr.’s leadership, the Huskies are likely to showcase their trademark balance and defensive dominance as they continue their early-season tune-up.
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