UConn center Najai Hines drawing praise from coaches ahead of new season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 1, 2026, 4:31 AM
Last updated Oct 1, 2026
Najai Hines, a 6-foot-11 freshman center, is expected to fill the starting role at UConn after transferring from Seton Hall. Coaches Tom Moore, Jim Calhoun, and Bob Hurley Sr. have expressed strong support for Hines, highlighting his size, shot-blocking ability, and potential impact. Hines averaged 6.5 points and 5.5 rebounds at Seton Hall, but his advanced stats indicate he can significantly contribute to UConn's frontcourt. As the season approaches, Hines looks to make a mark with a larger role in the lineup.
- •Najai Hines expected to start for UConn basketball this season
- •Coaches praise his shot-blocking instincts and physicality
- •Hines averaged 6.5 points and 5.5 rebounds at Seton Hall
- •He had one of the highest block rates in the nation last season
- •UConn aims to rely on Hines for increased frontcourt depth
- 4:31 AMYahoo Sports — Why Tom Moore, Jim Calhoun and Bob Hurley are high on Connecticut center Najai Hines
"Moore says Hines' shot-blocking instincts and advanced stats suggest he's ready for a bigger UConn role.
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