Arguably the most successful program of the 21st century, UConn has firmly cemented its place among college basketball’s Blue Bloods. The Huskies’ dominance may not date back as far as others, but their modern-era success is undeniable. As with any powerhouse, UConn’s legacy is built on great players, and these five transcend greatness, earning true Husky legend status.
Point Guard: Kemba Walker (2008 to 2011)
The most iconic Husky of the 21st century, Kemba Walker was a shifty, score-first guard whose junior campaign was the stuff of legend. Behind “Cardiac Kemba’s” 23.5 points per game, UConn did not lose a single bracket game in 2011, not at Maui, not in the Big East Tournament, and not in March Madness. With moments like his game winner against Pitt and a 36-point Sweet 16 masterclass, Walker’s 2011 season remains the greatest in UConn history.
Honorable Mention: Shabazz Napier
Shooting Guard: Ray Allen (1993 to 1996)
UConn basketball would not be what it is today without Ray Allen. One of only two male Huskies to have his number retired, Allen was the program’s first true superstar. Though he never won a national title, his elite shooting and clutch performances elevated UConn to national relevance and set the standard for what it meant to wear the jersey.
Honorable Mention: Ben Gordon
Small Forward: Rip Hamilton (1996 to 1999)
If Allen was UConn’s first superstar, Rip was their brightest. His relentless off-ball movement and mastery of the midrange made him nearly impossible to guard, and he finished second on UConn’s all-time scoring list with 2,036 points. Hamilton delivered the program’s first national championship in 1999 and earned a long list of personal accolades along the way.
Honorable Mention: Caron Butler
Power Forward: Donyell Marshall (1991 to 1994)
Donyell Marshall is UConn’s most underrated star. A phenomenal two-way forward, he became the program’s first All-American and was the unanimous Big East Player of the Year in 1994. Despite missing key free throws in a Sweet 16 loss to Florida, Marshall’s impact is undeniable. His success helped pave the way for the stars who followed.
Honorable Mention: Clifford Robinson
Center: Emeka Okafor (2001 to 2004)
The best defender in program history, Emeka Okafor was dominant in the paint and a leader on both ends. Alongside Ben Gordon, his two-way brilliance powered UConn to its second national championship in 2004. Okafor was a two-time Big East Defensive Player of the Year, a consensus All-American, and remains UConn’s all-time leader in blocks. He also graduated with honors from the business school with a 3.8 GPA, a Husky legend on and off the court.
Honorable Mention: Alex Karaban
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