UConn's Solo Ball to Miss 2026-27 Basketball Season After Surgery

UConn's Solo Ball will miss the full 2026-27 basketball season after wrist surgery, a significant loss compared to his consistent starts over the past two years.
By Newsroom | Sports, Basketball |

STORRS, CT - Solo Ball, a prominent guard for the UConn men's basketball team, is slated to undergo wrist surgery and will miss the entirety of the upcoming 2026-27 season. The university confirmed on Monday, April 20, that Ball will take a medical redshirt, with plans to return for the 2027-28 season.

UConn's Ball (wrist) to miss all of next season - 1

Ball, a consistent starter over the past two seasons, averaged 12.8 points per game last season and earned Second Team All-Big East honors. He has been a key offensive contributor for the Huskies, ranking 10th in program history with 199 career three-pointers and 44th on the all-time scoring list.

UConn's Ball (wrist) to miss all of next season - 2

Season Lost, Future Plans

The decision to redshirt comes after Ball played through a wrist injury for much of the previous season. The injury, sustained in a December game against Butler where he scored a career-high 26 points, noticeably impacted his shooting. Despite this, he was a finalist for the Jerry West Shooting Guard of the Year Award. His projected return in 2027-28 is framed by coach Dan Hurley as a chance for Ball to become "one of the best guards in America" and solidify his legacy at UConn.

Read More: Wembanyama Youngest Ever Defensive Player of Year

UConn's Ball (wrist) to miss all of next season - 3

The team is also seeing the return of other key players like starting point guard Silas Demary Jr. and versatile perimeter player Jayden Ross. UConn has also been active in the transfer portal, adding forwards Nikolas Khamenia from Duke and Najai Hines from Seton Hall, alongside top-40 recruits Colben Landrew and Junior County.

Historical Context and Previous Injuries

Ball's impact on the Huskies' recent success has been significant. As a sophomore, he averaged 14.4 points per game, stepping into a larger role for a team that reached the national championship game. During their tournament run, he scored in double figures in crucial wins, including against Michigan State, Duke, and Illinois.

This upcoming season marks a significant absence for the Huskies. Ball has started all but one game over the last two seasons, averaging 13.6 points per game in that span. He has previously dealt with other injuries, including a foot sprain that required a medical boot ahead of the 2025 NCAA title game, and a prior wrist issue that saw him miss a game in December 2025. His decision to undergo surgery underscores the persistent nature of his wrist ailment.

Read More: 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs: Early Series Leads for Avalanche, Hurricanes

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why is UConn's Solo Ball missing the 2026-27 basketball season?
Solo Ball will miss the entire 2026-27 season because he needs wrist surgery. He will take a medical redshirt and plans to return for the 2027-28 season.
Q: How will Solo Ball's absence affect the UConn team?
Ball was a key player, averaging 12.8 points last season and starting most games for the past two years. His absence is a big change for the team's offense.
Q: When is Solo Ball expected to return to play basketball?
Solo Ball is expected to return for the 2027-28 basketball season. The coach believes he can become one of the best guards in America upon his return.
Q: Has Solo Ball had injury problems before?
Yes, Solo Ball has had previous injuries, including a foot sprain before the 2025 NCAA title game and a prior wrist issue in December 2025. This surgery is to fix a long-term wrist problem.