UConn star Jordan Hawkins' status was in question ahead of Saturday's Final Four game against Miami due to illness, but he was able to start in the Huskies' win. We now have some more clarity on what Hawkins was dealing with.
Hawkins told reporters after the game that he believes he had food poisoning, and he thinks he knows the culprit: Calamari.
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Hawkins said he might never eat calamari again after having steak and calamari at an upscale Houston-area steakhouse during the week, excusing the steak and putting the blame squarely on the squid.
Jordan Hawkins said he might never eat calamari again
— Joe Arruda (@joearruda9) April 2, 2023
Hawkins missed Friday's practice and wasn't expected to fully participate in UConn's shootaround Saturday, but he suited up against Miami and scored 13 points. Coach Dan Hurley admitted during a mid-game interview that Hawkins wasn't at full strength.
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Asked whether there's any question about his availability for the national championship game against San Diego State, Hawkins quickly put any concerns to rest. "I feel great, no reason to be concerned about Monday," he told reporters.
"I feel great, no reason to be concerned about Monday."
— Adam Zagoria (@AdamZagoria) April 2, 2023
Jordan Hawkins on how he feels after missing practice Friday with a stomach issue https://t.co/znfeEKQj7c
Hawkins has been one of UConn's most critical offensive pieces this season, and he posted back-to-back games of at least 20 points earlier in the tournament.
As rough as the 48 hours leading up to the Final Four might have been, the chance to cut down the nets on Monday night might make it all worthwhile for the sophomore guard.