Geno Auriemma is the head coach of the University of Connecticut (UConn) women’s basketball team, a position he has held since 1985. Under his leadership, UConn has become a powerhouse in women’s college basketball, achieving remarkable success both nationally and internationally.
Coaching Achievements:
- National Championships: Auriemma has guided UConn to 11 NCAA Division I national championships (1995, 2000, 2002–2004, 2009, 2010, 2013–2016), the most in women’s college basketball history.
- Career Wins: In November 2024, he surpassed the NCAA record for career victories, reaching 1,217 wins and becoming the winningest coach in college basketball history.
- Final Fours and Elite Eights: Auriemma’s teams have appeared in 23 Final Fours and 28 Elite Eights, consistently demonstrating excellence in the tournament.
Recent Performance:
In the 2025 NCAA Tournament, UConn advanced to the Elite Eight, propelled by standout performances, notably from Paige Bueckers. Bueckers scored 40 points in the Sweet 16 victory over Oklahoma, setting a UConn NCAA Tournament single-game scoring record. Despite her record-setting feat, Auriemma emphasized the need for improvement in her defensive play.
Coaching Philosophy and Impact:
Auriemma is renowned for his demanding coaching style, which has fostered a culture of excellence and accountability within the UConn program. His approach has not only led to numerous championships but has also significantly influenced the development of women’s basketball, inspiring coaches and players nationwide.
International Contributions:
Beyond collegiate coaching, Auriemma served as the head coach of the U.S. women’s national basketball team from 2009 to 2016. Under his guidance, the team secured gold medals at the 2012 London and 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics, as well as World Championship titles in 2010 and 2014, maintaining an undefeated record in all four tournaments.
Personal Background:
Born on March 23, 1954, in Montella, Italy, Auriemma moved to the United States at age 7. He played basketball at West Chester University before transitioning to coaching. Beyond basketball, Auriemma engages in philanthropic efforts, including hosting charity events benefiting Connecticut Children’s Medical Center and serving on the board of the Kay Yow/WBCA Cancer Fund.