UConn's Adama Sanogo Emerges as a Star Wearing the Storied #23 Jersey

The Rise of Adama Sanogo at UConn

Adama Sanogo burst onto the college basketball scene in 2021 as a freshman at the University of Connecticut. The young center from Mali made an immediate impact for the Huskies and quickly became a fan favorite in Storrs.

Sanogo's Recruitment and Early Promise

Sanogo was not a highly touted recruit coming out of high school, receiving only a 3-star rating from 247Sports. But the UConn coaching staff saw great potential in the tall and athletic big man. When he arrived on campus, it was clear that he could provide an interior presence that the team desperately needed.

Emergence as a Freshman Star

It didn't take long for Sanogo to solidify himself as one of the best freshmen in the Big East in the 2021-22 season. He used his strength and developing post moves to overpower opponents on the block. Sanogo averaged 14.8 points and 8.8 rebounds per game while being named to the Big East All-Freshman Team.

Sanogo quickly became a fan favorite at Gampel Pavilion with his thunderous dunks and physical play in the paint. The crowds in Storrs began to buzz every time the energetic big man caught the ball down low or pulled down a tough rebound in traffic.

The Breakout #23 Jersey

Sanogo wore #25 as a freshman at UConn, but he switched to the more iconic #23 jersey for his sophomore campaign. #23 is a legendary number in Huskies basketball history, with players like Maya Moore and Rashad Anderson making it famous.

In many ways, Sanogo breaking out the #23 jersey signaled his emergence as UConn's next star player. It was a sign that he was ready to carry on the winning tradition associated with the number. If his play on the court is any indication, Sanogo has embraced the pressure and responsibility that comes with wearing #23.

NIL Endorsements Roll In

Sanogo's stellar freshman season immediately prompted Connecticut businesses to offer him name, image and likeness (NIL) endorsement deals. Companies wanted to partner with the likeable and marketable star from the capital city's beloved Huskies.

In April 2022, Sanogo signed his first NIL deal with Figure 8 Chocolate in Manchester. He promoted their husky-themed chocolates and became the face of the brand's UConn-inspired products.

Sanogo also partnered with several car dealerships for paid social media endorsements and personal appearances. His popularity on campus translated into several lucrative business opportunities off the court.

Sophomore Stardom

Entering the 2022-23 season, expectations were sky-high for Sanogo. He delivered in a big way, cementing his status as one of the best players in college basketball.

All-American Type Numbers

As a sophomore, Sanogo took his game to an elite level - averaging 20.1 points and 7.7 rebounds while shooting over 60% from the field. He used his advanced footwork and sculpted 255-pound frame to control the paint on both ends.

Matched up with the nation's best big men, Sanogo proved unstoppable. His 30-point, 20-rebound effort against Big East rival Xavier showed he was capable of dominating anyone.

NBA Draft Stock Rising

Sanogo was already appearing on NBA mock drafts at the start of the season - projected as a potential late first-round pick. But his spectacular sophomore campaign has probably secured his status as a 2023 lottery selection.

If Sanogo decides to enter the draft this summer, most experts expect his name to be called early. And he'll become the latest Husky to thrive in the pros while sporting #23.

Cementing His UConn Legacy

Regardless if he enters the draft or stays to lead UConn as a junior, Sanogo's legacy is etched at Storrs. Whenever he does move on, his #23 jersey will undoubtedly end up hanging from the rafters at Gampel Pavilion.

For a player that arrived unheralded just a couple years ago, Sanogo transformed seemingly overnight into a UConn icon. If he can lead the Huskies back to a Final Four before he leaves, he'll go down as one of the program's all-time greats.

FAQs

Where is Adama Sanogo from originally?

Sanogo is from Mali in Africa. He moved to the United States as a high school student to play basketball and develop his game.

What number does Sanogo wear at UConn?

After wearing #25 as a freshman, Sanogo now wears the legendary #23 jersey for UConn. Some all-time greats have worn #23 for the Huskies.

Is Sanogo expected to enter the 2023 NBA draft?

Yes, after a dominant sophomore season, most mock drafts project Sanogo to be a lottery pick in the upcoming draft. He could leave UConn this summer.

What are some of Sanogo's NIL endorsement deals?

Sanogo has partnered with local companies like Figure 8 Chocolate and car dealerships for NIL promotions. His popularity on campus has translated to business deals.