I'm not sure Stewart/Ross could have played better defense, or really anyone could have aside from a few NBA players. He's just that long, quick and athletic and when the shot is falling it's unguardable.
I know UConn gave up 52 in the second half but I really liked the defense overall. Sometimes you just have to tip the cap especially with some of the shots they made. Stewart especially stood out defensively all game to me. His offense needs some work but he is at least screening, moving and passing it well. He doesn't look lost, but he does look like the fifth option. I want to see how his offense goes the rest of the year but I feel people are a bit quick to pounce on that aspect of his game when he played very well defensively against maybe the toughest matchup in college basketball.
Ross looks like he is moving with intention now instead of frenzy on offense. Like, as they say, the game has slowed down for him on that side. Defensively, fouling out the last two games isn't great especially because he is so athletic and looks solid defensively. He just fouls a lot, a heck of a lot. That said, he's going to have a game or two where he explodes this year (and likely a dud or two). Next year though, he's going to be a beast. It's starting to click and I love it.
I still love that those two are combining to give UConn about 13+ a game nightly with Mullins out.
When Mullins comes back, it should allow Hurley to rest Alex a bit more with Stewart being free to back him up as well as give more optionality for the 2G, so there should be plenty of time for Stewart/Ross. The 39 minutes Alex played isn't sustainable for a long season.