“F-k Dan Hurley” – these were the words that reverberated through Omaha just hours ago. With ESPN’s matchup predictor giving Hurley and his Huskies only a 39.6% chance to pull off the upset against the Bluejays, it seemed like a steep hill to climb. But after a brutal, hard-fought slugfest, UConn emerged victorious in a 70-66 thriller. And what was Hurley’s response to the venomous chants? A four-word statement that would be remembered long after the buzzer sounded.

According to a recent post on X by College basketball report “Dan Hurley after getting “F-ck Dan Hurley” chants all night in Omaha: “Bye bye! Two rings! Two rings!””

The Huskies’ victory wasn’t just a statement about Hurley’s resilience—it also highlighted the tenacity of his team. Despite the relentless noise from the Creighton faithful, UConn fought its way back from a 14-point deficit late in the first half. Aided by Liam McNeeley’s season-high 38 points and 10 rebounds, the Huskies snapped Creighton’s nine-game win streak.

McNeeley’s return from an eight-game ankle injury was nothing short of legendary, and it served as the catalyst for a UConn team that was hungry for redemption. The freshman’s four 3-pointers after halftime, part of his fourth double-double of the season, were instrumental in keeping UConn alive during a critical stretch of the game.

As the game wound down, UConn’s Alex Karaban made a crucial floater to break a 65-65 tie with 1:44 remaining, ultimately sealing the win for the Huskies. UConn coach Dan Hurley could only smile when he reflected on the upset, his quiet confidence palpable.

“Bye bye! Two rings! Two rings!” Hurley’s words came in sharp contrast to the venomous chants hurled his way earlier in the night. It was more than a clap back—it was a reminder of his previous success and the potential they held.

Dan Hurley’s Huskies deliver a statement win: Creighton falls, UConn rises

For Creighton, it was a bitter pill to swallow. Even though the Bluejays had some impressive individual performances from Ryan Kalkbrenner (13 points) and Steven Ashworth (13 points), UConn’s defense made crucial stops down the stretch. Creighton struggled with shooting, especially in the second half, where they shot just 30%.

Ashworth, who had been on fire from the free-throw line, failed to make a single 3-pointer for the first time this season. With just six turnovers in the game—an impressive stat compared to their 47 turnovers in the previous two games—UConn proved they were well-prepared to deal with the Bluejays’ defensive pressure.

UConn’s triumph also marked a significant milestone: it was the Huskies’ first win in Omaha since they rejoined the Big East in 2020. It was a testament to the growth of Hurley’s program, and it was clear that the Huskies had taken a huge step forward this season. With their win, they not only ended Creighton’s long winning streak but also sent a message to the rest of the Big East: UConn isn’t just a team to beat; they’re a team that can thrive under pressure.

With that in mind, maybe the AP Poll will think twice before dropping the reigning champs from the top 25. “Don’t turn your back on me, I’m the best coach in the f-cking sport!” Dan Hurley’s words are more than a declaration. Will they carry the intensity against Seton Hall next?