Highlight to me was the overall defensive tenacity. Haven't seen that in many, many years. Steals, blocked shots, aggressive switching, challenged shots, dribbler pestering/aggression, etc... Far from perfect (1st game) but it will certainly get even better as the season progresses. Without that the game would have been much closer.
I also saw a lot of mobile athletes (particularly our bigs) allowing substitutions of fresh bodies with no let down. Right now I care more about Bouknight's defensive play than offense. That is a huge change of mindset for this UConn fan.
Hurley is seeking a defensive identity which itself invokes fear and respect in opponents. His players seem to have brought in to that.