Geno Auriemma apologizes after tense exchange with Dawn Staley
AP News • • sports
Key Points:
- UConn coach Geno Auriemma apologized for his conduct during a heated postgame exchange with South Carolina coach Dawn Staley following the Huskies’ 62-48 loss in the women’s Final Four.
- Auriemma acknowledged his behavior was uncharacteristic and expressed regret for detracting from South Carolina’s strong performance, offering a sincere apology to Staley and her staff.
- Staley, focused on preparing for the national championship game against UCLA, downplayed the incident and emphasized her commitment to winning, stating she would address the matter later.
- The disagreement reportedly stemmed from a perceived lack of a traditional pregame handshake, which Staley denied, asserting her integrity and confusion over Auriemma’s reaction.
- South Carolina advanced to face UCLA for the national title and will continue its rivalry with UConn, with the teams scheduled to meet the next two years starting in Connecticut.
