Freshman Clingan impresses

Center Donovan Clingan is Uconn’s only true freshman this upcoming season. Hurley has been impressed by his play and overall fitness. Clingan has prioritized getting into shape, losing 20 pounds over four months and now weighs 265 pounds.

“We are probably going to pat ourselves on the back and take a lot of credit for the shape he’s in right now,” Hurley said. “He sent me a picture from an award that he got at a dinner in Bristol. I thought it might have been from his sophomore or freshman year of high school. He looked so lean. He’s leaned out.”

Hurley also didn’t anticipate Clingan’s skill level being this high.

“I’ve just been impressed with his offensive skill level,” Hurley said. “On the defensive end of the court and the strength, he plays strong because he has so much mass as a human being.”

Hurley expects Clingan to back up star forward Adama Sanogo with the goal to keep Sanogo fresher as the season progresses.