Which Team Can Stop UConn From Becoming Back-to-Back National Champions Ahead in the March Madness?

The Huskies are roaring loudly in the 2024 March Madness run. With yet another victory in their banks, is there any other team that can give them equal competition and perhaps break their tourney dreams? By securing a comfortable win over Northwestern in the round of 32 with 75-58, UConn is now running with nine consecutive wins. However, the competition will only get tough and the path a little thorny as they enter the Sweet Sixteen.

While squaring off against San Diego (5) will not be a challenge for the Huskies, the next stage may be a little tricky. But can these teams bring down the reigning champions?

Rob Dauster and Jeff Goodman along with their two guests discuss which teams can be a threat to UConn’s dreams of bringing home their second consecutive National Championship trophy. A feat that Florida achieved back in 2007. While one may think they have different names throughout the field, it was not so. All four agreed that Illinois could end UConn’s run in the championship.

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According to Goodman, “In Elite Eight, to me, Illinois would scare me. Because what’s the one thing you’re worried about if you’re UConn? Big wings! And they got two.” He added his explanation, “I’m not saying they beat them. But I’m saying that’s not the type of team that if I’m Dan Hurley and UConn I want to see.”

The Fighting Illini’s fifth-year senior guard Terrence Shannon Jr. is a 6 ft 6 in threat to UConn. He is playing a magical game this season. Possibly, he will give the Huskies a run for their money with his expertise and scoring abilities. Apart from him, other players too can be a risky bet for UConn to delve into if they match up against Illinois.

Can Illinois beat UConn in the Elite Eight?

The major threat that the Fighting Illini can bring to the Huskies is their ability to separate the players. Coleman Hawkins and Marcus Domask are quite infamous for this quirk. Additionally, Dain Dainja could force Samson Johnson to play more than his average time by putting Donovan Clingan in foul trouble. The only way that the Huskies can get past this team is if they rely on their outstanding connection with each other.

Illinois Fighting Illini is not known for it and that’s their weak point. It is also something that the Cyclones will also use to their advantage. However, Illinois will first have to beat Iowa State before the Huskies could smell them.

But no matter which team advances to the Elite Eight, the room is getting steamier and it will be only challenging times that every team will face. In the end, the only question everyone will ask is whether UConn can repeat their heroic achievement again.

Are you excited about the Huskies?

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