UConn’s Dan Hurley hits NBA draft hopefuls with reality check

Without question, UConn head coach Dan Hurley is reeling from the Huskies loss in the national championship to Michigan. Nevertheless, he is taking time out to speak on the upcoming NBA Draft.

Essentially, Hurley made the case for players not to enter the Draft early, per The Dan Patrick Show/The Field of 68.

“Unless it absolutely makes total sense for you to go and you know you’re a lottery pick guaranteed to go top 15-18, the biggest mistake you can make right now as a college basketball player is going to the draft too early.”

Dan Hurley on the NBA draft:

"Unless it absolutely makes total sense for you to go and you know you're a lottery pick guaranteed to go top 15-18, the biggest mistake you can make right now as a college basketball player is going to the draft too early"pic.twitter.com/TReV9mEqXV

— The Field of 68 (@TheFieldOf68) April 9, 2026

Meanwhile, Braylon Mullins, Alex Karaban, and Tarris Reed Jr. are slated to become top NBA Draft picks. In the NIL era of college basketball, there is a greater incentive for players to stay in college. Nevertheless, there are still players who enter the Draft after one year in college (e.g., Cooper Flagg).

UConn is coming off losing to Michigan 69-63, falling short of their attempt to win three national championships in three years.

Also, UConn is projected as 5th in the way-too-early college basketball rankings for next year.

Hurley just completed his 8th season as head coach at UConn. In July 2024, Hurley signed a $50 million contract extension through the 2029-30 season.

That same year, Hurley was named the Naismith College Coach of the Year and Big East Coach of the Year. He also led the Huskies to a record 37-win season en route to their second consecutive NCAA title.

Along the way, Hurley has produced many NBA Draft prospects, including lottery picks.

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