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Hosted by Mark Zanetto 🎙 The Hoops Cap — only daily podcast For UConn men’s & women’s basketball. part of Big East EnergyNetwork

148 Episodes
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Brought to you by Homefield Apparel. Get your premium, vintage-inspired Huskies gear at Homefield and download the app for 15 pct off your first purchase. 23-0. The streak continues! Welcome back to Big East Energy for a live reaction to #1 UConn’s dominant 96-66 victory over the Tennessee Lady Vols in Hartford. It was a tale of two halves at PeoplesBank Arena. After a back-and-forth first half that left the game tied 42-42, the Huskies reminded the world why they are the undisputed top team in the country. UConn’s defense suffocated Tennessee in the second half, holding them to just 29% shooting and forcing 20 turnovers to pull away for the massive win. Inside the Episode: Azzi Fudd’s Masterclass: 27 points, 7 assists, and pure lethality from deep. Is she the NPOTY frontrunner? The Second Half Surge: How Geno Auriemma’s squad outscored the Lady Vols 54-24 in the final 20 minutes. The Supporting Cast: Sarah Strong’s glass-cleaning, Ashlynn Shade’s playmaking, and the bench energy from Serah Williams and Allie Ziebell. Rivalry Respect: Reflecting on the UConn vs. Tennessee legacy and where Kim Caldwell’s Lady Vols go from here. The Undefeated Road: Can anyone stop the Huskies before the NCAA Tournament? The Huskies have now won 38 straight games dating back to last year's loss in Knoxville. Revenge is sweet, and the road to a perfect season is wide open. Connect With Us: 🌐 Website: bigeastenergynetwork.com 🔔 Subscribe for more live reactions and UConn Women's Basketball analysis! ⭐ Leave a rating and review to help the channel grow. #UConnWBB, #UConnHuskies, #AzziFudd, #WomensBasketball, #NCAAW, #BigEastEnergy, #TennesseeLadyVols, #GenoAuriemma, #CollegeBasketball, #HomefieldApparel, #HuskiesBasketball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The CHI Health Center is a sea of pink! 🎀 We’re watching #2 UConn take on Creighton in a massive Big East showdown. UConn enters at 20-1, led by the veteran presence of Alex Karaban and the explosive scoring of Solo Ball. Creighton is looking for a signature Top-10 win behind local star Jasen Green and sharpshooter Josh Dix. We’re breaking down every play and taking your questions LIVE. Join the conversation! #RollJays #HoopsCap #BleedBlue #BigEastEnergy #PinkOut2026 #CoachesVsCancer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to another episode of The Hoops Cap, where your host Mark Zanetto dives into the latest on UConn basketball and the madness of the Big East. In today's show, Mark Zanetto explores why UConn's slow starts and surrendering leads might actually be a positive sign for the team, arguing that close games and adversity are helping build their mental toughness for March. He highlights the incredible impact of Silas Demery Jr., making the case for him as Big East Player of the Year and recognizing his all-around dominance, both offensively and defensively. Plus, Mark Zanetto previews the upcoming showdown against Creighton, analyzes the key matchups, and shares his prediction for a nail-biter finish—reminding listeners that UConn is built for April, not just January. Tune in for fresh perspective, passionate hoops talk, and a look ahead to a championship run. 00:00 Email for collaboration: bigeastenergy @gmail.com Sponsored by Home Field Apparel—15% off vintage UConn gear. Team is 20-1, 10-0 in Big East; no need to panic. 03:51 Dominance breeds complacency, but facing challenges like Villanova benefits UConn's long-term growth. 08:40 Team has a shot at going undefeated in conference, but a loss could be beneficial. Creighton struggles defensively but will be motivated Saturday night. 10:05 Uncertainty over Braylon Mullins' status, prediction: UConn wins narrowly, team primed for April success. Check out HOMEFIELDAPPAREL.COM! Download their app and get 15 pct off your first purchase! #UConnmbb, #uconnwbb #collegebasketball #collegehoops #bigeastbasketball #creightonbasketball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to The Hoops Cap, where we dive into the latest in Big East basketball. In this episode, Chelsea Sherrod from SNY joins us to discuss UConn basketball and the national college basketball scene. We also play a fun game, getting to know Chelsea and exploring some college basketball highlights. Mark Zanetto and Chelsea dive into https://www.unrivaled.basketball/ The upstart leauge RUN by UConn Huskies Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. How it will change women's sports forever. Tune in for all the sports news and more on this exciting sports podcast! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
STREAK SAVED. The #2 Huskies just moved to 20-1 (and a perfect 10-0 in Big East play) with a gritty 87-81 win over the Providence Friars at a rocking Gampel Pavilion. It wasn't always pretty, but Dan Hurley's squad found a way to close the door in the final five minutes. In this live reaction show, we’re breaking down: Tarris Reed Jr. Takes Over: 19 points, including 7 massive points in the clutch to seal the deal. Solo Ball’s Resilience: Even on a tough shooting night (5-18), he hit the 3-pointer that finally gave UConn some breathing room late. Unlikely Heroes: Shoutout to Malachi Smith (4/4 from deep!) and Eric Reibe (14 pts, 8 rebs) for stepping up when the starters were in foul trouble or struggling. The Big East Grind: How Providence (led by Jamier Jones' 20 pts) almost pulled off the upset and what this means for UConn’s momentum heading into Creighton on Saturday. What was your biggest takeaway from tonight's win? Are the Huskies the clear #1 team in the country right now? Let us know in the comments! Thank you to Homefieldapparell.com for the continued Sponsorship! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome back to The Hoops Cap! In this late-night edition, Mark Zanetto takes you through UConn’s gritty overtime victory over Villanova—a game that extended the Huskies' winning streak to 15, even if it wasn’t always pretty. Mark Zanetto breaks down what’s still holding this team back from being truly elite, including concerns about offensive flow and rebounding, but also shines a light on the clutch performances from Solo Ball and Alex Karaban down the stretch. The episode dives into some heartfelt moments, from Solo Ball’s emotional nod to his mom—a cancer survivor—on Coaches vs. Cancer day, to classic UConn wisdom straight from Jim Calhoun himself. There’s also an in-depth look ahead to the Husky’s next showdown against Providence, a team struggling to close out games but still dangerous if key players like Jason Edwards return from injury. Packed with insight, personal stories, and the pulse of Husky hoops culture, this episode is your courtside seat to UConn’s journey, their rivalries, and everything you need to know heading into the next big game. Stick around for all that, plus some advice for the bettors out there, only on The Hoops Cap. 00:00 Villanova's strong defense challenged UConn, whose offense needs improvement to reach elite status. 05:06 UConn outlasted the Wildcats 80-67 in overtime, with championship grit and Solo shining with 24 points despite injury. 09:13 Alex Karaban with two national titles, 110-23 record, aiming to break program wins record, believes team can be a championship contender with daily effort. 10:42 Coach Dan Hurley's humility and focus on improvement inspire growth even after success. 13:25 Players with concussions should avoid bright lights and loud environments; staying on the bench raises questions. 16:57 Questions arise about players' commitment and possible self-preservation for future payouts when injuries occur, especially amid lucrative transfers. 19:23 Braylon is out; Solo, Tarris, J. Stew and Jay Ross expected to step up. #cbb #uconn #uconnbasketball #villanovabasketball #bigeasthoops #bigeastenergy #providencebasketball #jimcalhoun #danhurley Thank you to our Sponsor Homefield Apparel- Go to Homefieldapparel.com and download their app for 15 pct off your first purchase! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to The Hoopscap! This week on the Big East Energy Network, your go-to for all things college basketball, we're diving deep into the upcoming games against Villanova and Creighton. Join hosts Mark Zanetto and Ryan Boatright for an insightful college basketball podcast, offering expert analysis and predictions. Don't miss this episode for all the latest on uconn basketball and the Big East Conference! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to The Hoops Cap, presented by Big East Energy Network! In this episode, Mark Zanetto breaks down the UConn basketball team's impressive 18-1 record and 14-game winning streak. He discusses how the Huskies have been relying on "fumes and championship DNA" to secure victories in close games this season, a testament to their resilience in college basketball. A dangerous pattern is emerging and showing itself in some non-con and here in Big East play. From Georgetown to Seton Hall, UConn’s double-digit leads are evaporating due to second-half scoring droughts and a stagnant post offense. In this episode of The Hoops Cap, we break down the problems and whether the UConn Huskies can fix their ball movement before March Madness. Shop the Look: This episode is presented by Homefield Apparel. Get the best premium vintage collegiate gear and UConn Huskies apparel at homefieldapparel.com. UConnBasketball, #DanHurley, #BigEast, #CollegeBasketball, #MarchMadness, #UConnHuskies, #TheHoops Cap, #HomefieldApparel, #NCAAB, #collegehoops Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome back to The Hoops Cap! In this episode, host Mark Zanetto joined by UConn basketball legend and ESPN broadcaster Meg Colmo, along with regular contributor Tee Baker and Host of Built to Ball, for an in-depth, fun look at the past, present, and future of UConn women’s basketball. Before UConn became the powerhouse program with sold-out crowds and stacks of national titles, a foundation was built by trailblazers like Meg Colmo—and today, she’s here to share her insights into what’s shaped the team’s identity and enduring success. From breaking down the current season’s standouts, defensive intensity, and the impact of the NIL and revenue sharing era on the Big East, to reminiscing about classic rivalries, unforgettable moments, and the nostalgia of growing up in the ‘80s, this episode is equal parts basketball analysis and heartfelt storytelling. Tune in as Mark Zanetto, Meg Colmo, and Tee Baker talk X’s and O’s, debate the importance of fierce competition, swap funny behind-the-scenes stories, and even imagine which Hollywood stars could play Geno Auriemma in a biopic. It’s a conversation full of laughs, hot takes, and hoops history that no UConn fan—or college basketball lover—will want to miss! 00:00 "UConn Hoops Legacy Spotlight" 04:17 "Impact of KK's Absence" 09:07 "Big East Impacted by NIL" 11:37 "Fun Is Winning and Competing" 13:44 "UConn-Notre Dame Rivalry Era" 16:54 "Gino's Remarkable Adaptability" 20:18 "UConn's Changing Rivalries Explored" 24:26 "Reflections on Pre-Digital Childhood" 27:33 "Lessons from Tough Interviews" 31:11 "Indiana Coach's Movie Comment" 36:15 "Journey Songs and Spicy Nights" 37:35 "Big East Energy Update" Homefield Apparel sponsors the Hoops Cap and all of The Big East Energy Network. Visit their site Homefieldapparel.com or download their App in the App Store for 15 pct off your first order. #UConnWBB, #BigEastBasketball, #GenoAuriemma, #WomenInSports, #CollegeBasketball, #BasketballRivalries Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this "Energy Exchange" episode, we dive into the upcoming Saturday matchup between UConn and Georgetown. We talk with a co-host from "Bleeding Blue and Gray" to discuss Georgetown's current season and what to expect from the Hoyas. This college basketball game, historically a clash of titans, still brings excitement to the Big East Conference. Thank you to our Sponsor, Homefield Apparel. Check out Homefieldapparel.com 00:00 "Georgetown's Struggles: Roster Issues" 04:29 "Georgetown's First Four Potential" 08:43 "Bulletproof Basketball Strategy" 12:10 "Terrace's Performance and Critique" 13:10 Versatile Big Man's Impact Analyzed 17:16 "UConn Strategy vs. Seton Hall" 21:53 "Georgetown Basketball's Rough Decade" 25:20 "Players Seek Stability and Value" 27:06 "Ed's Leadership and Mistakes" 32:07 "Something’s Not Clicking" 32:39 "Value of Georgetown Opportunity." 37:47 "Obsessed with HomeField." 39:54 "Homefield Shirt Obsession" #UConn #Georgetown #BigEast #CollegeBasketball #NCAABasketball #EdCooley #DanHurley #BasketballPodcast #GamePreview #HomeFieldApparel #BleedingBlueAndGray #HoopsCap #BigEastEnergy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The UConn Huskies are on a tear, but what do the metrics actually say about their path to a #1 seed and a potential historic three-peat? In this episode of the Big East Energy Podcast, we are joined by the "Queen of Stats," Katie Sharp (Stathead/Sports Reference), to break down the analytics behind UConn's 17-1 start. We dive deep into: The Resume: Analyzing UConn's #8 NET ranking and their 5-0 road record. Seeding Scenarios: What happens if they run the table in the Big East? Could a "trap game" against Georgetown or Butler derail their #1 overall seed hopes? The Karaban Legacy: Can Alex Karaban become the first player in the modern era to win three national championships? X-Factors: Why Silas Demary Jr.’s emergence and the Huskies' top-5 defense make them the team to beat. Whether you're a die-hard Husky fan or a college hoops junkie, this deep dive into KenPom, Quadrant wins, and bracketology is a must-watch. Presented by Homefield, check out Homefieldapparel.com #UConnBasketball, #UConnHuskies, #CollegeBasketball, #BigEastBasketball, #MarchMadness, #Bracketology, #DanHurley, #AlexKaraban, #NCAAB, #Stathead, #SportsAnalytics Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
UConn goes into the Prudential Center and grinds out a 69–64 road win over Seton Hall in one of the toughest environments in the Big East — THE ROCK. This wasn’t pretty. It was physical, hostile, and exactly the kind of game that defines March teams. In tonight’s live reaction, we break down how UConn survived the possessions that mattered, what this win says about the Huskies’ toughness, and where this team still needs to grow as conference play heats up. Road wins in the Big East are currency — and UConn just cashed one in. Welcome in to The Hoops Cap, powered by Big East Energy. If you’re new here, like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for instant postgame reactions, Big East breakdowns, and UConn basketball all season long. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This episode of The Hoops Cap is presented by Homefield Apparel — the go-to brand for premium, vintage-inspired college sportswear. Homefield is known for ultra-soft tees, authentic throwback designs, and officially licensed gear that every UConn fan should have in their rotation. UConn is 16–1, undefeated in Big East play, and stacked with talent — so why does it still feel like something’s missing? On this solo episode of The Hoops Cap, Mark Zanetto breaks down the post-game controversy following UConn’s 72–60 win over DePaul, explains why criticism is not disdain, and unpacks the bigger issue facing this team: finishing games. After Dan Hurley’s comments about metrics sparked debate, we zoom out and look at the season-long pattern — late runs allowed, missed chances to close, and what that could mean come March. This isn’t about hating. It’s about believing this team is capable of winning another national title. Then we preview a dangerous road matchup against a red-hot Seton Hall team at Prudential Center — a place UConn hasn’t won in four straight trips. The Pirates are elite defensively, physical, and playing with confidence under Shaheen Holloway. #UConn #GoHuskies #BigEastBasketball #CollegeBasketball #DanHurley #KenPom #NETRankings #Analytics #SetonHall #Pirates #TheHoopsCap #UConn's Dangerous Pattern That Could End Their Season Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Join Mark Zanetto for an emergency live reaction to one of the most improbable comebacks in UConn Huskies history. Trailing by 11 points with less than three minutes to play in a hostile Amica Mutual Pavilion, the No. 4 Huskies snatched victory from the jaws of defeat to take down the Providence Friars in a 103-98 overtime thriller. Mark breaks down how Dan Hurley’s squad extended their winning streak to 11 games and proved why they are the class of the Big East. In this episode, Mark discusses: The "Fab Freshman" Takeover: How Braylon Mullins silenced the crowd with a career-high 24 points, including 8 massive points in overtime. Floor General Mastery: Silas Demary Jr. putting up a monstrous 23 points and 15 assists to keep the offense humming under pressure. Clutch Gene: The late-game heroics from Alex Karaban and the Tarris Reed Jr. put-back that forced the extra period. Hurley’s Perspective: Analyzing Coach Hurley’s post-game comments on this "season-defining" win and the grit shown by his bench. The Friar Fight: Credit to Providence’s high-powered offense and Ryan Mela’s 19-point performance that nearly pulled off the upset. Whether you're a die-hard Husky fan or just a lover of Big East "war" basketball, this is the deep dive you need on a game that will be remembered for years. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Gampel is going to be rocking! đŸ”” We’re LIVE for the post-game reaction as No. 4 UConn prepares to host Marquette for the big Blue Out in Storrs. The Huskies are riding a 9-game winning streak and looking to stay perfect in the Big East. Can Shaka Smart and the Golden Eagles pull off a massive upset, or will Alex Karaban and the Huskies continue their dominance? Drop your score predictions in the chat! đŸ€đŸ”„ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Huskies just made a massive statement in Cincinnati! Join the crew from the Big East Energy Network as we break down UConn’s dominant performance against Xavier at the Cintas Center. In this live reaction episode, we dive into: The Blueprint for Victory: How UConn silenced one of the toughest crowds in the Big East. Key Standouts: Analyzing the individual performances that fueled the win. Conference Implications: What this result means for the Huskies’ standing and their momentum heading into the next big matchup. Whether you’re celebrating the win or looking for a deep tactical dive, we’ve got you covered with the energy and insight only this network provides. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to a special New Year's Eve edition of Roll Blob/Hoops Cap shows, on the Big East Energy Network, featuring a lively discussion with Hosts Mark Zanetto and Jason Meyer about college basketball. This episode offers engaging sports highlights and a compelling sports story as we prepare to welcome happy new year 2026. Get ready for an energy exchange as we dive into the world of NCAA basketball. The UConn Huskies take on the Xavier Muskies in a high-stakes Big East showdown! Both teams are looking to make a statement in this must-watch matchup as they battle for conference supremacy. In this video, we break down the key player matchups, defensive strategies, and the pivotal moments that will decide who comes out on top. Will the Huskies' championship pedigree be enough to handle the intensity of the Muskies on their home court? Stay Connected: Subscribe for more Big East basketball coverage and highlights. Drop a comment: Who do you have winning this matchup? #UConn #Xavier #BigEast #CollegeBasketball #UConnHuskies #XavierMusketeers #NCAAB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
There’s a calm, almost detached place you land when a team is truly elite—no hype, no defensiveness, just observation. When you’re Top 5, crushing the metrics, and winning the right way, the question isn’t if you’re good, but how close you are to being complete. That is exactly where UConn Basketball is right now. In this episode of The Hoops Cap, powered by Big East Energy, we move past the standard reaction show to provide a full season checkpoint as the Huskies turn the page toward the Big East grind. We break down: The Metrics: Why the eye test matches the Top 10 rankings in NET and KenPom. Alex Karaban’s Senior Leadership: A look at the steady hand of a future pro. Silas Demary Jr.’s Growth: Leading the Big East in assists and finding his command. Roster Depth: How Eric Reibe, Jaylin Stewart, and Jayden Ross are reinforcing the floor. Looking Ahead: Getting Solo Ball back for a tough road test at Xavier. UConn isn't a finished product yet, but they are the standard. Whether they’re the "villain" or the benchmark, Dan Hurley has this group looking March-ready. Special Thanks to our Sponsor: The Law Offices of James E. Sulick. Dealing with a criminal or personal injury case? Get over 42 years of experience in South Windsor. Call 860-644-4700 for same-day emergency consultations. Connect with Big East Energy: Like, subscribe, and download the show wherever you get your podcasts! Follow us for live updates and Big East analysis. #UConn #BigEast #CollegeBasketball #Huskies #Alex Karaban #DanHurley #BigEastEnergy #NCAAM #MarchMadness #UConnHuskies #HoopsCap #bleedblue Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
UConn opened Big East play with authority, knocking off Butler 79–60 in front of the home crowd. In this live reaction episode of The Hoops Cap, we break down what stood out from the Huskies’ conference opener — from the early tone they set, to the defensive intensity, to the individual performances that helped UConn pull away and control the game for 40 minutes. UConn’s stat line told the story of a complete, balanced performance in its Big East opener. Solo Ball delivered a career night, pouring in 26 points with efficient shooting and setting the offensive tone from the opening tip. Inside, Tarris Reed Jr. provided a steady physical presence, finishing with 16 points and 5 rebounds while consistently winning his matchups in the paint. The offense flowed through Silas Demary Jr, who orchestrated the attack with 11 assists, keeping Butler off balance and getting teammates clean looks all night. And when the game was there to be put away, Jayden Ross stepped up after halftime, scoring 13 second-half points to fuel UConn’s pull-away and put the opener firmly out of reach. The Hoops Cap is powered by Big East Energy and presented by the Law Offices of James E. Sulick. Subscribe, rate, and download wherever you get your podcasts, and follow us across social media for more UConn and Big East coverage. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Get ready for a massive early-season Big East battle! The No. 5 UConn Huskies launch their conference schedule as they host the Butler Bulldogs. We're diving deep into the key matchups, from the Huskies' balanced attack led by Alex Karaban and Solo Ball to Butler's high-scoring offense fueled by Finley Bizjack and national rebounding leader Michael Ajayi. Can the Bulldogs carry the momentum from their thrilling double-overtime win over Providence into Hartford? UConn is a heavy favorite, but Butler has historically kept recent matchups close. We break down the X-factors, game predictions, and who needs a massive performance to secure the win. Don't miss this in-depth breakdown of the most anticipated BIG EAST showdown of the week! Join Host Mark Zanetto and Paul Kritschner of @TheReboundRundown Brought to you by the Law Offices of James E Sulick. Visit: https://www.jamesesulicklaw.com/ Make sure to LIKE this video and SUBSCRIBE to Big East Energy Network for weekly college basketball previews, highlights, and analysis! #UConn, #Butler, #UConnBasketball, #ButlerBulldogs, #BIGEAST, #CollegeBasketball, #CBB, #NCAAB, #MarchMadness, #CollegeHoops, #UConnVsButler Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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