RALEIGH, N.C. — March Madness brings a palpable energy, and for Solo Ball, it feels like a natural fit. The UConn men’s basketball player, known for his approachable demeanor and vibrant spirit, is gearing up for a steep challenge as he and the Huskies prepare to face the top-seeded Florida Gators on Sunday, March 23, 2025, in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.
Last year, the then-freshman found himself a benchwarmer as UConn embarked on their historic run as the No. 1 overall seed at the Barclays Center. Fast forward to today, and the sophomore guard emerges as a vital contributor, a testament to his resilience and the coaching philosophy under Dan Hurley.
Ball's journey from limited playing time to a key player in the team's strategy saw its most recent highlight on Friday, March 21, when he made crucial plays to secure UConn's victory over Oklahoma. His clutch performance included a pull-up jumper that gave the Huskies a slim 48-47 lead, followed by two critical free throws and another jumper that extended the lead. "I love pressure," Ball stated confidently post-game. "Pressure makes diamonds." This attitude will be crucial as UConn, an 8th seed with a record of 24-10, enters the matchup against a formidable Florida team sporting a 31-4 record.
Despite being labeled as a 9.5-point underdog, the Huskies come into this game with a liking for the underdog role, often thriving under such circumstances. Hurley mentioned the pressure that comes with facing a top-tier team like Florida: "The film doesn’t lie about Florida, the challenges they present... It’s a one-game do-or-die situation. Our defense and rebounding will be tested to the max. We’ve got to play smart to win this game."
The back story of Solo Ball adds another layer to his on-court presence. Born Solomon Ball, he carved out the nickname "Solo" during his high school years, where he caught the eye of many for his exceptional skill set and work ethic. Currently, he’s averaging 14.6 points per game, with an impressive shooting record of 44.7 percent from the field and 42.2 percent from three-point range this season. Known for his sharp shooting, Ball is on the brink of tying for the fourth-most three-pointers in a single season at UConn, currently standing at 97 made shots with eyes on breaking records in mind. Hurley expressed faith in his shooting ability, mentioning, "He’s built for the stage and we’ve got to get him more shots. He adds so much value to our team.”
Ball's skill didn’t develop overnight. From a young age, he showcased an affinity for basketball, spurred by his father Mike, a former junior college player who instilled a strong work ethic. "It was going to happen; it was just a matter of when," Ball recalled, reflecting on how he committed to basketball after receiving his first hoop as a child. His father structured practices that included push-ups during commercial breaks while watching games, shaping the tenacity that defines his attitude today.
Having played only 17 minutes in the NCAA Tournament last season, Ball used that time wisely, observing from the bench and gaining invaluable experience. “The time on the bench was about developing my game,” he commented. “Watching the way Steph Castle played helped me build my confidence.” Castle, now a projected top draft pick, completed his journey at UConn before making his mark in the NBA. Ball now finds himself in a position where he is being scouted as well, with NBADraft.net projecting him to go 17th overall to the Detroit Pistons.
Turning back to the court, Ball faces a tough schedule ahead, having a back-to-back within a brief 36-hour window between games. After a late finish against Oklahoma, Ball must prepare for a critical afternoon game against Florida, starting at 12:10 p.m.
Aside from his exploits in the NCAA, Solo Ball has also embraced the emerging role of NCAA athletes in the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) market. Signing with LeBron James’ agency right out of high school, he also landed a deal with Panini America for a trading card set to support UConn amidst March Madness. Although specific earnings details remain private, his market valuation is reported to be approximately $363,000.
His hard work and personal story resonate well beyond the hardwood. With two older sisters and a brother contributing to a loving, yet demanding family environment, Solo Ball’s life experiences reflect the balance between sports and family values. He carries those with him as he prepares for this pivotal game against Florida.
Solo will continue to lead the charge with his unique philosophy, encapsulated in his tattooed mantra, "Chop Wood Carry Water," symbolizing resilience and unwavering focus. As he moves forward in the tournament, Solo Ball's story serves as an inspiration—one where talent, hard work, and faith in the process cultivate success both on the court, and for what lies ahead.
