Few names in college basketball carry as much weight as Geno Auriemma. The legendary UConn Huskies coach has built an empire of wins, titles and prestige, transforming women’s basketball in the process.
With decades of dominance on the court, his legacy is secured—but beyond the trophies and headlines lies another compelling figure: his net worth. The numbers behind the success story are as fascinating as his playbook.
As coaching salaries soar and endorsement deals expand, his fortune reflects more than just game-time decisions. What does a life of basketball greatness really earn someone in today’s sports economy?
What is Geno Auriemma’s net worth?
As of 2025, Geno Auriemma‘s estimated net worth stands at approximately $18 million, according to Marca. This substantial figure is a reflection of his unparalleled success and influence in women’s college basketball.
Geno Auriemma speaks to the media during a press conference after beating the South Carolina Gamecocks to win the National Championship of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. (Source: Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)
What is Geno Auriemma’s salary?
In June 2024, Auriemma secured a five-year contract extension with the University of Connecticut, valued at $18.7 million, extending his tenure through 2029. The contract comprises a base salary of $400,000 per year.
It is supplemented with an additional compensation of $2.94 million for the 2024–25 season for speaking engagements, consulting, and media obligations, with an annual increase of $200,000 thereafter.
This compensation package not only reflects Auriemma’s exceptional coaching achievements but also the multifaceted contributions he makes to the university and the sport at large.
He also receives bonuses for athletic achievements. For example, in the 2023-24 season, he accumulated over $312,000 in incentives for winning the regular season and the Big East tournament, being named Conference Coach of the Year, and advancing to the NCAA Tournament Final Four.
Geno Auriemma’s career: From humble beginnings to coaching royalty
Geno Auriemma’s journey to becoming a coaching legend began in Montella, Italy, where he was born in 1954. At the age of seven, he emigrated with his family to Norristown, Pennsylvania.
Geno Auriemma celebrates with the net after beating the South Carolina Gamecocks 82-59 to win the National Championship of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. (Source: Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
He attended Montgomery County Community College before transferring to West Chester University, where he played basketball and graduated in 1977. His coaching career commenced in 1977 as an assistant coach at Bishop McDevitt High School in Pennsylvania.
He later served as an assistant coach at Saint Joseph’s University and Bishop Kenrick High School before joining the University of Virginia’s women’s basketball team in 1981. In 1985, he was appointed head coach of the University of Connecticut women’s basketball team.
Under his leadership, UConn has transformed into a powerhouse in women’s college basketball. He has led the team to 12 NCAA Division I championships, 23 Final Four appearances, and 24 conference titles.
Beyond his collegiate achievements, he has made significant contributions to the sport on a national level. He served as the head coach of the U.S. Women’s National Basketball Team from 2009 to 2016, leading them to multiple international titles.
