UConn begins its national‑title defense on Monday by hosting the New Haven Chargers at Gampel Pavilion in Storrs. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. ET and will stream on ESPN+. The Huskies are ranked No. 4 in the preseason and return All‑American big man Donovan Clingan plus lead guard Tristen Newton from last season’s Final Four run (Kansas vs Green Bay Prediction 11/3/25 College …). Coach Dan Hurley also adds five-star freshman Liam McNeeley and Rutgers transfer Cam Spencer to a loaded roster.

New Haven is making the jump to Division I this season and will play in the NEC. Coach Ted Hotaling’s program has been a Division II power and features guard Ty Perry and forward Biggl Yates (Kansas vs Green Bay Prediction 11/3/25 College …). This will be a historic night for the Chargers as they face an in-state powerhouse.

Matchup & odds

• Tipoff: Monday, November 3 at 7:00 p.m. ET
• Location: Gampel Pavilion (Storrs, Conn.)
• TV: ESPN+
• Odds: UConn –40.5 (estimate); total 148.5

UConn should dominate from start to finish. The Huskies have an overwhelming size advantage and will pressure New Haven into turnovers. The Chargers may struggle to generate offense against UConn’s elite defense.

Pick & prediction

This game should be a comfortable tune-up for UConn. Dan Hurley will likely use his bench early and often, but the talent disparity is enormous. Look for the Huskies to cover the big number and push this game over the total. Final score prediction: UConn 95, New Haven 50.