Storrs, Connecticut – Departing for the Final Four proved to be a challenge for the defending national champions, UConn, as their travel plans were marred by mechanical issues with the original plane. The team’s journey to Phoenix finally took off from Bradley International Airport in Hartford at around 1:30 a.m. EDT on Thursday, following a five-hour flight that was expected to land at Sky Harbor International Airport by 3:30 a.m. MST.
Originally slated for departure on Wednesday at 6 p.m. EDT, the team faced delays due to unforeseen mechanical problems that prevented the designated aircraft from reaching Bradley Airport, as reported by the school. The NCAA collaborated with UConn and a charter company to explore alternative travel arrangements in light of the setbacks.
While the NCAA expressed disappointment over UConn’s delayed arrival, the team encountered further delays when the rescheduled departure for 11:30 p.m. EDT did not materialize. Head coach Dan Hurley took to social media around 1 a.m. to inform followers that the plane had yet to take off, delaying the team’s journey to the tournament.
CBS Sports initially reported the travel woes after being informed by coach Dan Hurley, revealing that the Huskies had not flown since experiencing flight disruptions following their March 6 game against Marquette. Subsequently, the team resorted to bus transportation for the Big East Tournament in Manhattan, the NCAA Tournament’s initial rounds in Brooklyn, and the East Regional games in Boston.
Despite the logistical challenges, top-seeded UConn (35-3) remains scheduled to face fourth-seeded Alabama (25-11) in their upcoming matchup on Saturday night. The team’s resilience will be put to the test as they navigate these unforeseen travel obstacles en route to the Final Four.