Here’s why we think UConn is the team to back when they play Saint Mary’s during the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

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Dan Hurley won’t be denied a spot in the second week of the tournament again.

In a battle of lockdown defenses, UConn’s vastly superior offense — which exploded for 50 second-half points against Iona, turning a two-point deficit into a 24-point win — will be the difference.

The Gaels have lost three of their four games as underdogs, while the Huskies went 20-11-1 against the spread as a favorite this season.

UConn, which also covered five of six games on neutral courts, will enjoy an atmosphere more akin to a home game in nearby Albany.