Tarris Reed Jr. Is the Spark the UConn Huskies Need

Tarris Reed Jr, the 6-10 junior transfer from Michigan, has big shoes to fill for the UConn Huskies with Adama Sanogo and Donovan Clingan both in the NBA. He has stepped up in big moments to secure several wins for UConn. On Wednesday against Georgetown, Reed secured his 7th double-double of the season, recording 20 points and 10 rebounds.

Reed is averaging a career high 9.8 points per game to go along with 7 rebounds per game. He mostly comes off the bench for the Huskies, but provides a spark that the front-court needs, and lacks. He has a great ability to attack the glass and know where the ball is going off the rim. At 260 pounds, Reed can use that muscle to grab rebounds and create space for himself to box out.

Dan Hurley spoke about Reed's impact and mentality:

“That version of Tarris Reed, if he can ever unlock it himself, the motor and dominating mindset, when he brings that, he’s a difference making player.”

Samson Johnson has been struggling this season for the Huskies, putting up 7 PPG and 3 RPG. He has also fouled out in five games this season. Along with the point guards, the big men have been a problem for the Huskies this season, lacking the size and physicality of former UConn bigs such as Sanogo and Clingan.

With Reed only a junior, he should develop one more year under Danny Hurley and with the UConn Huskies for his senior year. By doing so, he can grow as one of the great centers in college basketball. Getting him into the starting rotation would only benefit UConn with his size and ability to attack under the basket.