UConn Hoop Legend Tony Hanson Dies At 63

STORRS, CT — Tony Hanson, one of the first superstars for the University of Connecticut's basketball program in the 1970s, has died, according to multiple sources.

He was 63. Hanson was a key part in the emergence of the program during the seasons leading up to the Big East conference being formed and subsequent national prominence.

A UConn men's basketball spokesman said Monday the team is waiting to hear from the family to share more details. Hanson passed away Sunday, according to multiple reports.

The 6-foot-5 Hanson was recruited by legenday UConn coach Dee Rowe to come to Storrs out of Waterbury's Holy Cross High School in 1974 and wound up scoring 1,990 points, third all-time at the school.

He was named to the all-regional team in 1976, when the Huskies reached the Sweet 16.

In the days before the Big East, he was selected as a first-team All-New England player for the 1974-75, 1975-76 and 1976-77 seasons. He was the 1976-77 ECAC player of the year.

UConn was 73-38 in his four years at the school.

Photo Credit: UConn Athletics

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