UConn’s Recent Recruiting Success: Spotlight on Jacob Furphy and Eric Reibe

STORRS, Conn. — On June 28, a typical Saturday at the peak of summer in Connecticut saw little excitement in the world of college basketball. This was altered by an intense matchup between Australia and the United States during the FIBA Under-19 Basketball World Cup in Lausanne, Switzerland. The American roster featured notable prospects, including AJ Dybantsa, the top recruit for 2025, and Mikel Brown Jr., the No. 8 prospect.

However, it was Australian guard Jacob Furphy from the NBA Global Academy, who claimed the spotlight by scoring a game-leading 24 points despite his team’s loss. His performance generated buzz among UConn fans, especially with the stake they have in future recruitments, including five-star shooting guard Braylon Mullins and center Eric Reibe.

“He held his ground against American lottery picks and played exceptionally well,” said UConn assistant coach Luke Murray. The coaching staff flew to Switzerland not just to observe their recruits but also to see Furphy’s remarkable rise, as he averaged 16.7 points and contributed significantly throughout the tournament.

Furphy’s addition aligns with UConn’s evolving recruitment strategy. After reflecting on past challenges, head coach Dan Hurley has pivoted towards incorporating players with strong offensive skills. With Murray’s assistance, they shifted their approach to place greater emphasis on complex plays and analytics, enhancing their offensive capabilities.

On his part, Reibe, who chose UConn over top schools like Kansas and Indiana, is distinguished for his remarkable ball-handling skills at 7 feet tall. His experience in international play complements UConn’s goals, as he is expected to support the team at both low and perimeter positions. His basketball roots extend from Germany to Switzerland, and now to Storrs.

Furphy, originally from Tasmania, has been groomed through Australia’s elite basketball programs. He recognizes a shared offensive philosophy with UConn, making the program an attractive choice during his recruitment. His role at the FIBA tournament showcased his versatility and ability to adapt quickly while operating under high-pressure situations.

As Furphy and Reibe gear up to join a competitive squad alongside returners and new recruits, UConn anticipates they will significantly contribute to the team’s success. The coaching staff appreciates Furphy’s adaptability and hopes to leverage his unique skills within their evolving system, aiming for continued excellence on the court.