UConn’s Auriemma Prepares for Championship Game Amidst Past Challenges
TAMPA, Fla. — With 11 NCAA basketball titles to his name, UConn’s Geno Auriemma stands as the most decorated coach in the tournament’s history. However, his most recent triumph dates back to 2016, and since then, he has faced significant hurdles in the women’s Final Four.
Reflecting on Past Final Fours
As Auriemma gears up for his 13th NCAA championship match during his 24th Final Four appearance, he reflects not only on past defeats but also on the decisions that have influenced those outcomes. “I’ve lost more Final Fours for my team than they have, because coaches make decisions about what to do with their team,” said Auriemma. “And if you make the right decision, you win.”
The UConn Huskies celebrated a period of dominance from 2013 to 2016, clinching four consecutive NCAA titles led by standout Breanna Stewart. However, the years that followed have been marked by heartbreak. UConn experienced narrow losses in the national semifinals in 2017 and 2018, each decided by late buzzer-beaters from formidable foes—Mississippi State’s Morgan William and Notre Dame’s Arike Ogunbowale.
Learning from Difficult Decisions
“I don’t look at those two as heartbreaking frustrations,” Auriemma shared, explaining that the decisions he made during those games have haunted him more than the actual losses. “I would have if I didn’t make two decisions in both of those games that I think have more to do with us losing than those two buzzer-beaters.”
The narrative of near-misses continued in subsequent years, with losses to Notre Dame in 2019 and a stunning defeat to Arizona in the national semifinals in 2021. Last year, a controversial late call against UConn’s Aaliyah Edwards was a pivotal factor in their semifinal loss to Iowa.
Health and Hope in the Current Season
In 2022, UConn faced South Carolina in the championship game, where injuries significantly impacted their performance, resulting in a 64-49 loss. Key player Paige Bueckers missed the 2023 NCAA tournament due to a knee injury, which contributed to the breaking of UConn’s remarkable streak of 14 consecutive Final Four appearances.
As the Huskies prepare to face South Carolina again, this time with hopes of redemption, health has emerged as a bright spot. “The fact that we sort of have a chance to be able to manipulate the game a little bit better than we had before, that’s rewarding,” Auriemma expressed. “That makes up for all the heartache and all the trauma and tribulations that we have had to go through.”
Conclusion
With the championship game approaching, Auriemma remains focused on making strategic decisions that will lead UConn back to glory. His extensive experience and reflection on past performances may be key as he guides his team into this critical matchup against a strong South Carolina squad.