Demary Ready to Go All-In: UConn's Point Guard Eyeing 90% for Illinois Showdown
UConn's Silas Demary Jr. is trending toward full strength just in time for the biggest stage. Coach Danny Hurley confirmed Thursday that his point guard, who's been battling a high ankle sprain since the Big East title game against St. John's on March 14, is expected to play at about 90% when the 2-seed Huskies face 3-seed Illinois on Saturday in the Final Four.
The Grind Back to Health
Demary missed the opening NCAA tournament game against Furman but has been fighting through the injury all week. The progression tells the story: he was at roughly 65% against UCLA in the first weekend, climbed to around 75% by the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight, and now feels like he's knocking on the door of game-ready. Still, the recovery has been unconventional. He's wearing a boot after games and an ankle brace during play, but isn't cleared for live practice reps yet. That means he'll step onto the biggest stage of the season without any meaningful practice time to shake off the rust.
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👉 Claim Your Free $10 at Kalshi"I think once I start getting up and down, I start to feel more comfortable," Demary said. He acknowledged the rust but insisted that once the game tips, his focus stays locked on doing his job.
Mental Toughness Meets Basketball IQ
Hurley leaned on Demary's background to explain his resilience. His father played football at Virginia State and passed down that mentality to his son. It shows. UConn assistant Luke Murray, heading to Boston College as the incoming coach, noted that Demary's early tournament approach has been sharp: compartmentalize the moment, lock in defensively, and initiate the offense efficiently.
Hurley was direct about what Saturday requires: "I think he's got a chance to play at like 90% physically for the Illinois game, which we're going to need all of that."
The Huskies are chasing their third title in four years. Demary at 90% might be exactly what they need.
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