Why Scott Burrell Keeps UConn Ties While Building Southern Connecticut

The Southern Connecticut State University men’s basketball team is turning heads this season with head coach Scott Burrell at the helm. Burrell, a Hamden native and former UConn legend, brings a personal touch and deep local ties to his recruiting.

He’s zeroed in on in-state talent, looking for players who get what Connecticut basketball means. Two of his standouts, Justice Ellison and Cherif Diarra, both have family connections to the UConn Huskies, adding more than just skill—they bring a sense of tradition and pride.

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Burrell’s UConn Connection Shapes Southern’s Roster

Scott Burrell isn’t just filling a roster—he’s building a close-knit program rooted in shared history. His own UConn legacy runs deep, and it’s clear in the team he’s assembled.

Back in his Husky days, Burrell was the first Division I player to notch over 1,500 points, 750 rebounds, 275 assists, and 300 steals. Those numbers still carry weight in Connecticut hoops circles.

Justice Ellison: Scoring Leader with Local Ties

Guard Justice Ellison stands out as one of the Owls’ top players. He’s the son of Burrell’s former UConn teammate, Shawn Ellison.

After leading the Northeast-10 Conference in scoring two years straight at American International College, Ellison transferred to Southern Connecticut to chase an NCAA Tournament dream. Burrell admits he missed on Ellison out of high school but didn’t let the second chance slip by.

Cherif Diarra: Defensive Anchor and Leader

Forward Cherif Diarra also brings UConn bloodlines—his brothers, Hassan and Mamadou, both played for the Huskies. Diarra has built his reputation on defense and rebounding.

He averaged 11.2 points and 9.4 rebounds last season. Around the locker room, teammates look to him for leadership and work ethic.

Pride in Representing Connecticut

Burrell wants athletes who feel the honor of playing for Connecticut. That message seems to hit home, not just in New Haven, but in places like Hamden, Bridgeport, Hartford, Stamford, Waterbury, Danbury, Norwich, and Middletown.

This year, five of the 13 players on the roster hail from Connecticut. It’s a real homegrown vibe.

Building a Team with Local Heart

Skill matters, but Burrell talks a lot about three things with his team:

Toughness – the mental and physical grit to handle intense competition.
Teamwork – putting the group’s success ahead of individual accolades.
State Pride – understanding the honor and responsibility of representing Connecticut basketball.

Mix those qualities with Burrell’s hands-on mentorship, and you get a team that plays for each other. The Owls have become one of the tightest squads in the Northeast-10 Conference.

From UConn Stardom to NBA Veteran

Before coaching, Burrell made his mark as a Connecticut sports icon. His UConn success launched a 13-year NBA career, where he played for several teams and showed off his versatility.

He leans on that pro experience and his network of former teammates and coaches. It gives him a leg up when it comes to recruiting and developing players.

A Program Rooted in Tradition

Burrell isn’t just chasing wins. He wants to honor a tradition that stretches from Storrs to New Haven.

By blending local talent, family ties, and lessons from his own journey, Burrell is shaping a program that feels both competitive and uniquely Connecticut.

Looking Ahead: NCAA Tournament Goals

Ellison, Diarra, and the rest of the Owls want to make a real run in the postseason. With Burrell leading, the team’s defense looks tough, and their scoring options can put pressure on anyone they face.

Southern Connecticut seems ready for another NCAA Tournament push. If they pull it off, fans all over Connecticut—whether in Hartford’s city blocks or Norwich’s close-knit neighborhoods—will celebrate right along with them.

As the season rolls on, Burrell keeps recruiting and motivating Connecticut-born athletes. That might end up being the secret sauce behind Southern’s success.

For basketball fans in places like Stamford, Bridgeport, and Waterbury, watching local talent shine isn’t just about the game. It’s about state pride, plain and simple.

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Here is the source article for this story: Why Scott Burrell maintains UConn men’s basketball ties while building Southern Connecticut

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