During his freshman year, he stepped in to possibly commend the shoes of Hasheem Thabeet, and earned a spot on the Big East All-Rookie team as the result.
Now, after watching the golden opportunity to start for the Huskies (5-0) this season fall in his favor, Oriakhi has stepped up for UConn.
After averaging five points, and 6.6 rebounds per game last year, Oriahki is up to 13.4 points, 12.0 rebounds, 2.4 blocks per game.
During both upsets of the No. 6 Michigan State Spartans, and the No. 10 Kentucky Wildcats, Oriahki was in double-figures in points and rebounds.
He currently averages 16.5 points, 14 rebounds, and two blocks per game against ranked opponents.
Kemba Walker stole the show this season thus far scoring 30-points per game, but Oriahki has become a great second option.
With Walker, and Oriahki in the starting lineup for the Huskies, UConn can continue its dominance. The Huskies have now been inserted into the top-25, and has a chance to continue dominating their non-conference slate of games.
The Huskies are in action next when UConn takes on the New Hampshire Wildcats (3-1) on November 30, at 7:30 ET.
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