VIDEO: UConn veteran Alex Karaban kicks off practice for Dan Hurley's Huskies ahead of senior season

UConn veteran forward Alex Karaban is gearing up for his senior season with the Huskies, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to the team. Karaban announced his return to Storrs in late April after withdrawing from the NBA draft.

The Huskies commenced their practice for the upcoming season this week with Karaban in charge. The team is aiming to bounce back from last season's disappointing 24-11 record and return to the glory days of two seasons ago, when they won back-to-back national championships.

On Saturday, UConn men's basketball Instagram posted a video of the 6-foot-8 Massachusetts native beginning practice.

"Gave AK the mic for week 1️⃣😂," UConn MBB wrote in the caption.

Here's the video:

In the clip, Alex Karaban — the team captain — gave a small pep talk to his teammates and was hyping them up before action began.

"Alright, let's go. First day. Have a lot of energy. Move around have fun. Let's get into it. Let's go," he said.

Karaban acted like a coach on Saturday, which is huge because he understands what Coach Hurley wants from his players.

After Solo Ball hit a shot, Karaban called him the best shooter in the country, boosting Ball's confidence.

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Alex Karaban is chasing a fairytale ending with one more national title with UConn

The last dance for Alex Karaban is all about chasing a fairytale ending. His decision to return to UConn for his senior season underscores a burning desire to end his collegiate career on the highest note possible.

In an Instagram post in late April, Karaban gave a straightforward explanation of his mindset for the upcoming season.

"I pride myself on accepting challenges and holding myself to the highest standard. Last year, we didn't achieve what we set out to, and I am not running from a chance to make that right! After deliberating the last few weeks with my coaches and family about my future, I've realized that my heart remains in Storrs, and I have unfinished business to chase another national championship with my brothers," he wrote.

Last season, Karaban averaged 14.3 points, 5.3 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game, earning All-Big East second-team honors. The Huskies, however, fell short of their aspirations, losing to Florida in the second round of March Madness.