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Marquette runs into wall in Big East tournament final. Now Golden Eagles need to get healthy.

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Marquette runs into wall in Big East tournament final. Now Golden Eagles need to get healthy.


NEW YORK – It was always going to be a tall task for the Marquette men’s basketball team in the Big East tournament championship game on Saturday night.

The Golden Eagles were playing their third game in three days, all without their most important player in floor general Tyler Kolek. The first two games were grueling, physical affairs that left many MU players limping and bandaged. Oh, and the Golden Eagles were playing one of the best teams in the nation in second-ranked Connecticut, which boasts a matchup nightmare in 7-foot-3 behemoth Donovan Clingan.

So it wasn’t surprising that the third-seeded Golden Eagles, ranked No. 10 in the country, ran out of gas in a 73-57 loss to the top-seeded Huskies at Madison Square Garden.

“I thought our guys had phenomenal fight,” MU head coach Shaka Smart said. “Went toe-to-toe with a team that’s probably played better than anyone in college basketball.”

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Box score: Connecticut 73, Marquette 67

Donovan Clingan too much to handle

MU held Connecticut scoreless for the first six minutes and 33 seconds. But MU only had a 2-0 advantage by the time the Huskies scored a field goal.

The Huskies finally clicked into gear, and they shot 17 for 27 (63%) in the second half to pull away.

“Just running out of steam,” MU’s David Joplin said. “I think we guarded them extremely well the first half, and we just have to keep up those same efforts throughout the game. It just made it difficult as time went on.”

Clingan finished with 22 points and 16 rebounds. He is the first player since Georgetown legend Patrick Ewing in 1984 to have at least 20 points and 15 rebounds in a Big East final.

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“He puts you in a bind as a team defensively because it’s hard to guard him with one guy,” Smart said. “And the way we defend pick-and-rolls, sometimes smaller guys get on him, and that’s a problem. But he does that to a lot of people.”

Connecticut's Donovan Clingan shoots over Marquette's Ben Gold during the first half on Saturday night.

Connecticut’s Donovan Clingan shoots over Marquette’s Ben Gold during the first half on Saturday night.

Oso Ighodaro joins other banged-up Marquette players like Stevie Mitchell

MU won the Big East tournament last season, and this season the Golden Eagles players and coaches have said the most important thing is a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.

How healthy the Golden Eagles will be when they play next week is the biggest question, with the roster largely made up of the walking wounded.

“When you play in this league with the physicality with which teams are allowed to play, there’s going to be a lot of different bumps and bruises and things that come up,” Smart said.

Kolek, the unanimous all-Big East first-team player and likely consensus All-American, sits atop the list of concerns. He missed his sixth straight games since suffering and oblique injury on Feb. 28, but Smart said before the Golden Eagles opened Big East tournament play “the plan is absolutely for him to play next week.”

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Another injury cropped up on Saturday when big man Oso Ighodaro banged his left knee in the second half. Smart pulled Ighodaro with just over seven minutes remaining as a precaution.

“He was struggling getting up and down the floor, so I took him out because he didn’t look like he was moving well,” Smart said.

Ighodaro did not want to make a big deal about it.

“I’m good,” Ighodaro said in the MU locker room. “I just hit my knee a little bit. I’m good”

MU starting guard Stevie Mitchell was wincing as he moved around the locker room. He played with his left shoulder wrapped after taking a wicked hit while drawing an offensive foul against Providence in the semifinals Friday.

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“Warrior,” Smart said. “That’s the status update on him. He’ll probably play in our next game. Not probably, almost definitely. But he’s also banged up. He’s got an assortment of different things.”

The injury report doesn’t stop there. Chase Ross, elevated to the starting lineup in Kolek’s absence, aggravated a nagging left leg injury in the semifinals.

MU finds out its NCAA Tournament matchup on Sunday. There will be a lot of ice and rehab for the Golden Eagles before they take the court in the first round on Thursday or Friday.

“Nobody is 100% at this time of year,” Mitchell said. “I think we need to take these next few days to get our bodies right. Get back to as close to 100% as they can be. That’ll be good for us.”

Marquette turns attention to March Madness

Despite the maladies and the loss in the title game, there were positives for the Golden Eagles from their time in New York.

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Freshman guard Zaide Lowery had some nice moments with more playing time because of Kolek’s injury, including five points in 14 minutes against Connecticut. He showed he wasn’t intimidated by playing in front of a sellout crowd at an arena known as “The Mecca of Basketball.”

“Just really be ready, stay ready,” Lowery said. “Once you stay ready, you don’t have to get ready.

“Came in this weekend, did the best I could to help my team win. We came up short, but we got bigger things ahead of us.”

Kam Jones and Ighodaro made the all-tournament team, along with Clingan, St. John’s guard Daniss Jenkins and Providence guard Devin Carter. The Huskies’ Tristen Newton, who had 13 points and 10 assists against MU, was named most outstanding player.

Jones scored a team-high 13 points against the Huskies, and he had 54 over his three games at Madison Square Garden.

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MU hasn’t been to the second weekend of the NCAA Tournament since 2013. Jones wants this team to end the drought.

“We want to be playing our best basketball every game, starting with the first round,” Jones said. “It’s single elimination, and it’s non-negotiable to bring your best every game in March Madness.”

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Donovan Clingan helps UConn beat Marquette 73-57 in Big East final



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Two arrested after armed robbery in Wethersfield Saturday night

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Two arrested after armed robbery in Wethersfield Saturday night


Two people have been arrested according to Wethersfield Police in connection to an armed robbery at a Family Dollar on Silas Deane Highway Saturday night.

According to police a store clerk said one of the suspects was a male who displayed a handgun and stole merchandise from the store.

They say he was accompanied by a female when fleeing the scene in a red Hyundai Elantra before police arrived.

At 10:43 p.m. Hartford Police officers found the suspect’s vehicle and detained them where they were positively identified as 57-year-old Miguel Ramirez of New Britain and 48-year-old Susette Mendes of Hartford.

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During the investigation, police say Ramirez admitted to selling the stolen merchandise in Hartford and was found in possession of a knife.

Ramirez was charged with first-degree robbery, sixth-degree larceny and sixth-degree conspiracy to commit larceny.

Mendes was charged with first-degree robbery, sixth-degree larceny, sixth-degree conspiracy to commit larceny and possession of a controlled substance.

They were each held on a $50,000 bond and scheduled to appear in New Britain Superior Court on Monday.

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Bridgeport firefighter is dead after Stratford shooting

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Bridgeport firefighter is dead after Stratford shooting


A Bridgeport firefighter is dead after a homicide in Stratford, according to officials.

At approximately 1:44 a.m., the Stratford Police Department responded to a report of a shooting on Feeley Street.

Upon arrival, officers found a male bleeding heavily from a gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead on the scene shortly after by paramedics.

The firefighter was identified as 41-year-old Terrence Cramer of Bridgeport.

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Cramer was an active-duty Bridgeport Firefighter for the last 9.5 years.

“Chief Edwards and the Bridgeport Fire Department are aware of the passing of Bridgeport Firefighter Terrence Cramer. We send our heartfelt condolences to the friends and family of Terrence,” said Bridgeport Public Information Officer Shawnna White.

After a brief motor vehicle pursuit, 41-year-old Jabari Bush was taken into custody in Derby at approximately 4:30 p.m. on Saturday.

Earlier in the day, a felony arrest warrant for the murder of Terrence Cramer was charged to Bush.

Bush is charged with Murder, Home Invasion and Criminal Possession of a Firearm.

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He is being held on a $2 million court set bond. His court date is issued for March 30, 2026.

The Stratford Police Department was assisted by the New Haven Police Department, the Seymour Police Department, the Shelton Police Department, the Derby Police Department and the Connecticut State Police.



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6 Best Connecticut Towns For A Weekend Trip

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6 Best Connecticut Towns For A Weekend Trip


Known for its captivating coastlines along the breathtaking Long Island Sound, Connecticut has spectacular destinations for unforgettable weekend adventures. Prepare for a dreamy getaway where history, beauty, and culture converge through mesmerizing medieval-style mansions such as the one at Gillette Castle State Park. You can also explore the rich maritime history of Mystic through the Mystic Seaport Museum or experience cascading waterfalls at Kent Falls State Park. So, read on to discover even more about the 6 best Connecticut towns for a weekend trip.

Mystic

Mystic, Connecticut.

From exquisite galleries to eye-catching coastal pathways and endless opportunities for shopping and dining, Mystic is very diverse. Start by diving into America’s seafaring history at the Mystic Seaport Museum. Here, you will find treasures, including four National Historic Landmark vessels and over 500 historic watercraft. Next, meet intriguing creatures at the Mystic Aquarium. This non-profit organization is home to thousands of animals, covering marine mammals, reptiles, invertebrates, and fish.

The Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic, Connecticut.
The Mystic Seaport Museum in Mystic, Connecticut. Image credit Faina Gurevich via Shutterstock

If you are more of a creative, see rotating exhibitions created by notable regional artists at the Mystic Museum of Art, a place for culture, community, and creativity. Next, find out what unique gifts and souvenirs are available in Olde Mistick Village. This open-air shopping village features a wide range of stores, with over 40 shops and eateries to explore in a beautiful, colonial-style, pet-friendly environment. When you are ready to rest, stay right outside the village at the Holiday Inn Express Mystic. Enjoy on-site amenities like a fitness center, pool, free breakfast, and complimentary coffee in a convenient central location.

Litchfield

Buildings on West Street, Litchfield, Connecticut.
Buildings on West Street, Litchfield, Connecticut. Image credit: Joe Mabel via Wikimedia Commons.

Plan a peaceful, picture-perfect escape surrounded by nature and 18th-century architecture in Litchfield, one of the best Connecticut towns for a weekend trip. Soak in the scenery of Mount Tom State Park as you climb 1,325 feet to the summit, or simply sit back and relax by the pond. Nature lovers can explore the eye-catching trails of the White Memorial Conservation Center. This wonderful nature preserve has a historic regional museum and a 4,000-acre wildlife sanctuary.

Downtown Litchfield, Connecticut.
Downtown Litchfield, Connecticut. Image credit: Joe Mabel via Flickr.com.

After getting your steps in, treat yourself to a dreamy trip to the winery. Taste quality varietals underneath stunning skies or in a rustic tasting room at Sunset Meadow Vineyards, only a few minutes’ drive from The Litchfield Inn. This lovely boutique hotel offers complimentary breakfast, a fitness center, and lush, rolling hills.

Niantic

The Morton House in Niantic, Connecticut.
The Morton House in Niantic, Connecticut. Image credit Dmcoxe via Wikimedia Commons

Find your own piece of Northeast paradise in Niantic, one of Connecticut’s most beautiful small towns. Wander along the Niantic Bay Boardwalk, a 1.1-mile path stretching from Cini Park to Hole-in-the-Wall Beach along Long Island Sound. Go swimming off the sandy shores in the summer, accessible by a short tunnel underneath the railroad tracks. Once you have soaked up the sun, see what treasures you can find in The Book Barn. This Main Street haven features over 350,000 books, along with exciting games, vibrant gardens, and adorable farm animals. After a day of exploring, head to The Niantic Inn. This cozy hotel, located a few minutes east, is known for its excellent location near the shore, shops, and restaurants.

Madison

Blue hour after sunset in Madison, Connecticut.
Blue hour after sunset in Madison, Connecticut.

Book a dreamy getaway to Madison, your typical New England beach town. From picturesque coastlines to pedestrian-friendly pathways with quaint cafes, award-winning bookstores, and charming boutiques, this is one of Connecticut’s best getaway towns. Experience the beauty of Hammonasset Beach State Park, the state’s longest shoreline park. The site includes two miles of sandy beaches along with a peaceful nature preserve. Home to the Meigs Point Nature Center, you can find over 50 species of local wildlife, educational displays, and unbeatable views. After an afternoon of adventures, spend a relaxing evening in Madison Cinemas. This independently owned cinema presents films in 7.1 Surround Sound for a highly immersive experience. Regarding accommodations, Scranton Seahorse Inn is only a two-minute walk away. Stay in a cozy room in the heart of town, where history and renovated comforts combine in a 1833 Greek revival home.

East Haddam

The Goodspeed Opera House with the East Haddam Bridge in East Haddam, Connecticut, over the Connecticut River.
The Goodspeed Opera House with the East Haddam Bridge in East Haddam, Connecticut, over the Connecticut River.

Approximately 45 minutes from Madison, you will find East Haddam, one of the state’s most remarkable yet under-the-radar small towns. Start your weekend at Gillette Castle State Park. Explore the modern medieval stone castle with spectacular views from 200 feet above the Connecticut River. To further immerse yourself in nature, head to Devil’s Hopyard State Park. From cascading waterfalls to wonderful bird-watching and trout fishing opportunities, the park is full of gems. Make sure you visit the Eightmile River, a National Scenic and Wild River designated by the U.S. Forest Service. Capture photos of Chapman Falls, dropping more than 60 feet over the Scotland Schist stone formation. City lovers wanting to explore Main Street should head to the Victorian-era Goodspeed Opera House. Watch a mesmerizing musical from April through December in this architectural wonder. Finally, end the night with a historic stay mixed with modern amenities in The Boardman House Inn. Located right up the street, this luxe bed and breakfast was constructed with Second Empire architecture in 1860, immersing you in a journey back in time.

Kent

St. Andrew's Church, Kent, CT.
St. Andrew’s Church, Kent, CT. By Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikipedia.

Unlock the perfect combination of history and nature in Kent, an extraordinary spot in the Litchfield Hills. Famous for its fall foliage, Appalachian hiking trails, and quaint Main Street shops, this New England town offers plenty to do. Begin your adventure in Kent Falls State Park. There, you will see a striking series of waterfalls dropping into the Housatonic River. From there, wander across the Bulls Bridge. Constructed in 1842, this historic treasure is one of the few functional covered bridges remaining in the state. The Connecticut Antique Machinery Museum is another site you must not miss. Its 8-acre museum space boasts unique machinery depicting the area’s rich industrial and agricultural history. If you are looking for distinct accommodations that will truly connect you with the heart of Kent, stay at the Spirit Horse Farm. The charming small family farm offers comfortable lodging in a historic setting that will make for a truly unforgettable escape.

Plan Your Weekend Escape In Connecticut

If you would like to see plenty of diverse attractions in a short period of time, Connecticut is the perfect place to explore. Discover a dreamy mix of natural beauty, maritime history, art, and New England-style architecture in this coastal haven. From the gorgeous galleries and notable museums of Mystic, to the expansive boardwalks of Niantic, and the striking Appalachian trails and outdoor museums of Kent, these are the 6 best Connecticut towns for a weekend trip.

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