Alex Karaban Returning to UConn for Senior Season, Will Forgo 2025 NBA Draft

After flirting with the possibility of declaring for the 2025 NBA draft, Alex Karaban has decided to return to Connecticut for his senior season.

Karaban announced on X his "heart remains in Storrs" and he wants to "chase another national championship" with the Huskies in 2025-26.

The return of Karaban means Connecticut will bring back three of its top four scorers from last season, and incoming freshman Braylon Mullins and Georgia transfer Silas Demary Jr. will join them.

Last year, following the Huskies' second straight national title, Karaban declared for the 2024 draft while maintaining his eligibility. He ultimately decided to return to school.

Karaban was coy about staying in the draft this year when asked earlier this month if he was leaning one way or another.

B/R's Jonathan Wasserman had Karaban going to the Chicago Bulls with the No. 45 overall pick in his most recent mock draft released on April 22. His pro comparison was Georges Niang thanks to his "off-ball shooting, cutting and defensive instincts."

Despite averaging a career-high 14.3 points per game in 33 starts last season, Karaban's efficiency went down from his first two years. He shot 43.8 percent overall and 34.7 percent from three-point range on 5.9 attempts per game.

Karaban did make an impact in other ways, averaging career highs in rebounds (5.3) and assists (2.8).

Being able to bring back Karaban is a huge win for head coach Dan Hurley. The Huskies went through a soft reset last season after losing Donovan Clingan, Stephon Castle, Cam Spencer and Tristen Newton.

Connecticut still managed to win 24 games and make the NCAA tournament, losing to Florida in the second round to end its streak of 13 consecutive tournament victories dating back to the 2022-23 season.

The roster is once again stocked with talent that should have the Huskies back in the mix for a national title in 2025-26.