UConn’s Alex Karaban Named to John R. Wooden Award Midseason Watch List
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A prestigious honor has been bestowed upon UConn men’s basketball captain Alex Karaban, as he was selected to the 2025-26 John R. Wooden Award Men’s Midseason Top 25 Watch List on Wednesday, January 7th. The announcement was made by the Los Angeles Club, recognizing Karaban as the sole representative from the BIG EAST conference on this elite list.
A Frontrunner for College Basketball’s Highest Honor
The Wooden Award watch list, determined by a midseason poll of national college basketball experts, identifies 25 student-athletes considered frontrunners for both the Wooden Award All-American Team and the coveted Wooden Award Most Outstanding Player title. This recognition underscores Karaban’s significant impact and potential as one of the nation’s premier players.
Stellar Senior Season in Storrs
Karaban is currently enjoying a remarkable final season with the Huskies. The four-year starter consistently ranks among the team leaders, currently positioned in the top three in scoring (13.3 points per game), rebounding (5.5 rebounds per game), and assists (2.3 assists per game). He has started all 15 games this season and leads the BIG EAST in total minutes played, demonstrating his durability and crucial role in the team’s success.
His shooting efficiency is particularly noteworthy, boasting a stellar 50.0% field goal percentage, 41.8% from three-point range, and an impressive 88.0% from the free-throw line. Beyond scoring, Karaban contributes significantly on the defensive end, averaging 2.1 “stocks” – a combined total of steals and blocks – per game. This defensive prowess is a key component of UConn’s elite defense, currently ranked No. 3 nationally in Kenpom defensive efficiency.
Climbing the UConn Record Books
Karaban’s impact extends beyond this season, as he continues to ascend the UConn record books. He recently became the 21st player in program history to surpass 1,500 career points and is on track to potentially break all-time program records for games played, games started, and three-point field goals made. Currently, he leads all high-major players in games played at a single school with 126 appearances and ranks fourth in UConn history with 125 career starts.
A Legacy of Success
Throughout Karaban’s tenure as a Husky, the team has achieved an exceptional 106-23 overall record, including an impressive 13-1 record in the NCAA Tournament. This sustained success highlights Karaban’s contribution to a winning culture and positions UConn as a perennial contender on the national stage.
