It’s crazy to think that it’s been years since the late great Kobe Bryant left us. The Los Angeles Lakers legend went down as one of the greatest players in<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nba" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> NBA</a> history, on and off the court.



Kobe’s signature, ‘Mamba Mentality,’ has been an inspiration for thousands of people, even those outside of sports. Notably, that includes UConn Huskies star Paige Bueckers.



In an interview with ESPN, Bueckers admitted that she found solace in Bryant’s book “The Mamba Mentality” when she suffered a season-ending injury back in 2022.



<h2>Paige Bueckers claims Kobe Bryant’s book helped her cope with an injury</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“When this injury first happened, I thought a lot about Kobe,” Bueckers said. “I read “The Mamba Mentality” book and how he just looked at his injury as another way to prove people wrong and as another thing to accomplish.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250116_BUS_314334_Paige-Bueckers-1024x576_60c379b0.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-296582" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>December 7, 2024, Brooklyn, New York, USA: UConn Huskies guard PAIGE BUECKERS (5) reacts to a play during the first half against the Louisville Cardinals. Brooklyn USA</figcaption></figure>



The book digs deep into Kobe’s mindset and approach not only to the game of basketball but also to life. That inspired Bueckers and helped her cope and get back stronger.



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Kobe loved challenges, so anything that he could face that people had doubts that he could overcome, made him want to do it even more. His mentality, his approach, just how much he dedicated his life to the game,“ she added.</blockquote>


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


Unfortunately, Bueckers is currently on the shelf again. She sustained a left knee sprain in the game vs. the Villanova Wildcats. With the WNBA up next, she will take things carefully for the remainder of the season.

NCAAB News: Paige Bueckers explains how Kobe Bryant inspired her

NCAAB News: Paige Bueckers explains how Kobe Bryant inspired her - Bolavip US

miniaturas

Geno Auriemma has coached more stars than the average head coach. During his long and successful 40-year tenure with the UConn Huskies, he’s established himself as a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball </a>legend.



Auriemma has taken many legends of the game under his wing. Notably, that includes WNBA superstar Diana Taurasi, who once took the team on her shoulders.



Taurasi was forced to do all of the heavy lifting to keep her team afloat. That’s why Coach Auriemma put his players on blast, letting them know the kind of burden they were laying upon her teammate. 



<h2>Geno Auriemma said Diana Taurasi’s teammates would get her kill</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“She had to be the best point guard, best shooting guard, best shooter, best rebounder, best passer, and had to guard the other team’s best player every night. It just overwhelmed her after a certain point because we lost and there was nothing she can do about it,” Auriemma said. “I just want you to know, she’s having a breakdown carrying you guys. So, either you can make her load a little bit lighter, or you say, ‘I don’t care. We’re gonna let you kill yourself.&apos;”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250112_BUS_310474_diana-taurasi-1-1024x576_40e368c9.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="diana taurasi" class="wp-image-266725" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/diana-taurasi-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/diana-taurasi-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/diana-taurasi-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/diana-taurasi-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/diana-taurasi-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/diana-taurasi-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/diana-taurasi-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/diana-taurasi-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Phoenix Mercury legend Diana Taurasi </figcaption></figure>



Of course, that kind of pressure also helped mold her and turned her into one of the greatest players of all time, even leading the Phoenix Mercury to three WNBA Championships.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


As for Coach Auriemma and the Huskies, they will look to add even more silverware to their program this season, marching strong as a perennial contender for the national championship.

NCAAB News: Geno Auriemma reveals heartbreaking story about Diana Taurasi

NCAAB News: Geno Auriemma reveals heartbreaking story about Diana Taurasi - Bolavip US

Paige Bueckers hasn’t set a single foot on a WNBA court yet. Nevertheless, she’s already considered to be one of the young stars of the game, and she’s projected to be the first-overall pick.



While she’s still playing for Geno Auriemma and the UConn Huskies, she also signed a NIL deal with the new basketball tournament ‘Unrivaled,’ and she’s one of the most popular players in<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> college basketball</a> right now.



That’s why everybody wants to watch her blossom in what might be her final season with the Huskies. With that in mind, USA Today’s “For The Win” asked her about the biggest area of improvement in her game.



<h2>Paige Bueckers wants to be more aggressive</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“It is going well. It is all a toss-up because you don’t want to get outside of yourself and outside of the team and start shot-hunting. But I’m looking to be aggressive first and look for my shot and that leads to distribution to others and getting my teammates open. I think I’ve done a pretty good job. I’m growing every single day,” she said.</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250111_BUS_310479_Paige-Bueckers-1024x576_32f4870b.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-296582" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>December 7, 2024, Brooklyn, New York, USA: UConn Huskies guard PAIGE BUECKERS (5) reacts to a play during the first half against the Louisville Cardinals. Brooklyn USA</figcaption></figure>



Bueckers knows her experience gives her an edge over other players. Nonetheless, she’s far from a finished product and knows she can still get better before turning pro: 



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I can only get better from here as well. It is all part of the new challenges that this year has presented. We are very young and we don’t have a ton of experience. So being a leader and having to use my voice and find that new challenge every single day, I’ve enjoyed growing and learning and embracing the ups and downs of it,” added Bueckers. </blockquote>


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


The Huskies will have to get by without their best player for a while, as she’s currently dealing with a sprained knee. So far, she’s averaged just under 20 points and 2.1 steals per game on 56% shooting and 40% from three.

NCAAB News: Paige Bueckers reveals what she needs to get better at

NCAAB News: Paige Bueckers reveals what she needs to get better at - Bolavip US

For the better part of the college basketball season, UConn Huskies star Paige Bueckers has been penciled in as the projected first-overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. 



However, that also comes with some lofty expectations. That’s why some people have been less than impressed with her averages, even though she’s putting up almost 20 points with four rebounds and four assists per game on 56% shooting.



That’s why, in the latest edition of “The Elle Duncan Show,” the renowned analyst didn’t want to hear anything about Bueckers being in some sort of a slump, as some people say. 



<h2>Paige Bueckers isn’t going through a slump, says analyst</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“They are really out here trying to convince me that Paige Bueckers is in some kind of slump, I’m sick of it,” said Duncan. “‘What does Paige need to do to get out of this slump?’ What slump, you guys? This poor woman, the bar is so high for a woman that’s literally on the precipice of history about to become the fastest player in UConn history to hit 2,000 points.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250110_BUS_308879_Paige-Bueckers-1-1024x576_d1f66ed9.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-296584" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150117/Paige-Bueckers-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150117/Paige-Bueckers-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150117/Paige-Bueckers-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150117/Paige-Bueckers-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150117/Paige-Bueckers-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150117/Paige-Bueckers-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150117/Paige-Bueckers-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150117/Paige-Bueckers-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>University of Connecticut guard Paige Bueckers (5) goes up for layup. </figcaption></figure>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“She would break Maya Moore’s record. Okay and we’re over here saying she’s in a slump,” she continued. “She’s got the best field goal percentage of her career okay, but she’s in a slump? Come on.”</blockquote>



That pretty much sums it up. Bueckers continues to be one of the best players in the nation, and those numbers don’t show a slump at all. Moreover, her absence will be even more notorious than her presence.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


Geno Auriemma’s team will be forced to play the next two games without Bueckers, who recently suffered a left knee sprain. There, they will know just how huge she is for her program.

NCAAB News: Analyst digs deep on Paige Bueckers' slump with Uconn

NCAAB News: Analyst digs deep on Paige Bueckers' slump with Uconn - Bolavip US

One cannot talk about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball </a>without talking about the UConn Huskies. Whether it’s the men’s or women’s team, the Huskies have a long history of success.



A lot of that has had to do with coach Geno Auriemma. He’s been in charge of the program for four decades, and as such, he’s coached and mentored his fair share of young women.



That’s why he couldn’t agree more when he was asked whether young stars of the game, such as Paige Bueckers, have a responsibility to be positive role models for the youth.



<h2>Geno Auriemma talks about the player’s role in society</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“They came to see you (the players) play basketball. You need to show them that it’s possible. You might not have my talent, but it’s possible for you to get these things done that I’m getting done. It’s not limited by your talent or your size or your speed,” the coach said. “It’s only limited by you might not being able to get to Paige Bueckers level, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t a school somewhere in America that you could play at and be really good at. So, there are more kids watching Paige play that’ll never play at this level, and they need to understand that there’s a level for them too.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250104_BUS_305040_paige-bueckers-1-1-1024x576_4963b051.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="paige bueckers" class="wp-image-277700" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/paige-bueckers-1-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/paige-bueckers-1-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/paige-bueckers-1-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/paige-bueckers-1-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/paige-bueckers-1-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/paige-bueckers-1-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/paige-bueckers-1-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/paige-bueckers-1-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Paige Bueckers #5 of the UConn Huskies looks on during the first half of the game against the North Carolina Tar Heels</figcaption></figure>



College basketball stars have become more popular during the NIL era. As such, what they do off the court will start being as important as what they do on the hardwood.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


Bueckers has excelled in that regard. She’s already touted as the next WNBA star, and with averages of 20.9 points per game, there will be no shortage of young girls idolizing her in the future.

NCAAB News: Geno Auriemma explains why Paige Bueckers has the ultimate responsibility

NCAAB News: Geno Auriemma explains why Paige Bueckers has the ultimate responsibility - Bolavip US

Geno Auriemma and the UConn Huskies will look to begin 2025 with the right foot. For that to happen, they will need their superstar, Paige Bueckers, to keep her foot on the gas.



Bueckers has been one of the biggest sensations in<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> college ba</a>sketball for quite a while now — both for men and women — and that figures to be the case all the way to the WNBA.



With that in mind, the young star took to social media to share her most spiritual side on Monday, quoting Psalm 107:1 to express her gratitude after such an ‘amazing’ year.



<h2>Paige Bueckers shares a bible quote to close out the year</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Thank you, God, for an amazing year,” Bueckers wrote in the Instagram post. “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Psalm 107:1.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20250102_BUS_304074_Paige-Bueckers-1024x576_81128c30.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-296582" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150033/Paige-Bueckers.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>December 7, 2024, Brooklyn, New York, USA: UConn Huskies guard PAIGE BUECKERS (5) reacts to a play during the first half against the Louisville Cardinals. Brooklyn USA</figcaption></figure>



Bueckers helped the Huskies reach the Final Four in April. She took a big leap after injuries threatened to derail their promising season. Unfortunately, she couldn’t get past Caitlin Clark and the Iowa Hawkeyes.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


Now, she will look to take care of business this season, and while it won’t be an easy task to accomplish, she has one of the best supporting casts and coaching staffs in the nation.

NCAAB News: Paige Bueckers shares spiritual message after epic 2024

NCAAB News: Paige Bueckers shares spiritual message after epic 2024 - Bolavip US

Going away to college isn’t easy, and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a> scene can be very cruel. That’s particularly true now that the transfer portal can lead to some short-lived partnerships.



That hasn’t been the case with Alex Karaban and the UConn Huskies, however. He’s become a pivotal part of the program for three years now, helping them get a 77-14 record and back-to-back national championships.



Now, he’s leading the team with 16.5 points and 1.8 blocks per game. Nevertheless, after all these years under his tutelage, he believes his bond with coach Dan Hurley goes way beyond the court.



<h2>Alex Karaban claims Dan Hurley is the most impactful person in his life</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“He’s been the most impactful person in my life,” Karaban told AP. “He’s challenged me on and off the court, helping me develop habits like reading and meditating. Anytime I have a problem, I know I can turn to him.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241231_BUS_303387_dan-hurley-1024x576_5d3f0fb3.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="dan hurley" class="wp-image-281112" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/dan-hurley-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/dan-hurley-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/dan-hurley-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/dan-hurley-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/dan-hurley-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/dan-hurley-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/dan-hurley-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/dan-hurley.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>UConn coach Dan Hurley reacts in the first half against the Purdue Boilermakers during the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament National Championship game</figcaption></figure>



It hasn’t always been easy, though. Karaban knows that his coach will hold him accountable when he doesn’t perform up to his usual level, but that has only made him respect him even more:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“After bad games, he’d be on me,” the Huskies star acknowledged. “But that’s how the best relationships are formed, through struggles and great moments.”</blockquote>


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


At the end of the day, college basketball coaches aren’t only preparing their players to be great athletes but also successful human beings. Clearly, Hurley has done a great job here.

NCAAB News: Alex Karaban makes shocking claim about Dan Hurley

NCAAB News: Alex Karaban makes shocking claim about Dan Hurley - Bolavip US

It’s been an up-and-down season for UConn star Azzi Fudd. She sustained a knee injury that forced her to miss three consecutive games, and she was then thrown into the fire as a starter.



She took Ashlynn Shade’s spot against Providence, playing heavy minutes for the first time in quite a while. Unsurprisingly, she struggled with her shot, scoring just eight points on 27% from the floor.



Nevertheless, Huskies coach Geno Auriemma knows her senior guard is much better than that. Following the game, he stated that it’s just a matter of time before she’s back to her old ways.



<h2>Geno Auriemma expects Azzi Fudd to bounce back </h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“It’s good to get her back, good to get her out there and when she gets her legs under I think things will get even better,” the coach said. “I think athletes like routine, they like to know what’s next and how do I prepare for what’s next and when you’re not sure, it’s difficult.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241231_BUS_303356_Azzi-Fudd-1024x576_d30787ad.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-303322" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30161438/Azzi-Fudd-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30161438/Azzi-Fudd-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30161438/Azzi-Fudd-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30161438/Azzi-Fudd-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30161438/Azzi-Fudd-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30161438/Azzi-Fudd-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30161438/Azzi-Fudd-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/30161438/Azzi-Fudd.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>December 7, 2024, Brooklyn, New York, USA: UConn Huskies guard AZZI FUDD (35) looks on during the first half against the Louisville Cardinals.</figcaption></figure>



Auriemma hoped to get her back in the starting lineup for good and no more setbacks. He knows how important she is to the offense, and it might be just a matter of shaking off the rust:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Then you end up with more practice time than you actually do game time… hopefully it’s the last time we’ll have to go through anything like that. When she’s in the game, it’s always a threat, she might go four for four in a spurt and put the game away. So, it’ll come it’s just going to take a little bit of time,” the coach sustained. </blockquote>


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


Injuries aside, Fudd has always been an impactful player, and her on-court rapport with Paige Bueckers could be instrumental in leading this team back to the mountaintop.

NCAAB News: Geno Auriemma isn't ready to give up on Azzi Fudd

NCAAB News: Geno Auriemma isn't ready to give up on Azzi Fudd - Bolavip US

No one can talk about <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball </a>without talking about Geno Auriemma. While women’s basketball wasn’t as popular in the past as it is nowadays, his legend has always stood tall.



He’s been in charge of UConn for decades now. Moreover, he coached some of the greatest women’s basketball players of all time, including Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi.



That’s why, as much as Daw Staley has also helped South Carolina become a powerhouse, she admitted that there are levels to everything, and UConn has usually gotten the best of them.



<h2>Dawn Staley admits UConn’s supremacy</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Let me, I wouldn’t even say we’re rivals because you gotta win,” Staley told Taylor Rooks. “The percentage of them beating us is very high to our low. I just think it’s become a great anticipation game for all of basketball, not just college, not just women’s basketball, but all of college basketball. Because when it’s put on television, the viewership is way, way up.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241228_BUS_302003_geno-auriema-1024x576_543b208a.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Geno Auriemma" class="wp-image-270158" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/geno-auriema-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/geno-auriema-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/geno-auriema-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/geno-auriema-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/geno-auriema-740x416.jpg 740w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/geno-auriema-490x275.jpg 490w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/geno-auriema-250x140.jpg 250w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/11/geno-auriema.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Head coach Geno Auriemma of the UConn Huskies ( Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



The Gamecocks and Huskies have met 13 times with Staley and Auriemma at the helm. The Huskies won seven in a row, all by double digits, but the Gamecocks have now taken four in a row and five of the last six.


 <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" id="BUS#/college-basketball/highest-paid-college-basketball-head-coaches"></div>


Both programs will square off again in February, and while the Huskies continue to sit atop when it comes to history, South Carolina still boasts the team to beat as the defending champions.

NCAAB News: Dawn Staley gets brutally honest on rivalry with Geno Auriemma

NCAAB News: Dawn Staley gets brutally honest on rivalry with Geno Auriemma - Bolavip US

Throughout the course of history, Geno Auriemma has established himself as the most prominent coach in women’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball. </a>As such, he’s coached his fair share of elite talents.



Several of his pupils have gone on to have legendary careers in the WNBA as well. Needless to say, Diana Taurasi might either sit at the top spot of that list or at least close to it.



Notably, their bond transcends the basketball court, and they’re still pretty close to this day. In a recent appearance on “What Drives Winning,” the legendary coach claimed that their similar backgrounds and upbringings helped shape that relationship.



<h2>Geno Auriemma talks about his relationship with Diana Taurasi</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“My parents never knew anything that I was doing from the time I was 13 or 14—nothing. They didn’t understand it,” Auriemma said. “So, I told Dee (Diana), I said, ‘Dee, I’m the only person in America you can’t con,’ and she knew it. And I lived her life, and we had a bond that, because of the way I lived my life and how she was growing up, went way, way beyond basketball.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241226_BUS_301028_Geno-Auriemma-1024x576_1412760d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-296592" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>November 15, 2024: Conn coach Geno Auriemma tied the NCAA, College League, USA Division I record for men s or women s basketball with his 1,216th career victory Friday night as his No. 2 Huskies beat No. 14 North Carolina 69-58. NCAA basketball game between University of Connecticut and University of North Carolina at First Horizon Arena, Greensboro NC CSM Greensboro United States of America</figcaption></figure>



Recently, Auriemma became the winningest coach in NCAA Division I history, taking down Fairleigh Dickinson for his 1,217th career triumph. Of course, Taurasi was in attendance and even shared some words about her former coach.


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The 42-year-old is coming off averaging 14.9 points and 3.4 assists per game for the Phoenix Mercury. It’s not so bad for someone who’s been in the league for two decades.

NCAAB News: Geno Auriemma explains special bond with Diana Taurasi

NCAAB News: Geno Auriemma explains special bond with Diana Taurasi - Bolavip US

UConn star Liam McNeeley has been instrumental in their season turnaround. The Huskies didn’t fare well in the Maui Invitational, shockingly losing all of their games vs. ranked teams.



To add insult to injury — literally — Alex Karaban was diagnosed with a concussion after a collision late in the game vs. Dayton, so he was forced to watch the next two games from the sidelines.



That’s when McNeleey emerged as their savior. He poured in 16 points to help beat Maryland Eastern Shore, and then scored 17 points in a tougher win over No. 15 Baylor. Now, looking back, coach Dan Hurley shared a hilarious quote about recruiting him.



<h2>Dan Hurley shares candid quote about recruiting Liam McNeeley</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“He’s one of us before he commits here,” Hurley said. “And you’re like if this kid goes anywhere else, he’s an idiot, is what you’re saying to yourself. And you’re also saying, man, we need him badly.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241226_BUS_301027_Liam-McNeeley-1024x576_1b00ec5b.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-301016" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/26154022/Liam-McNeeley-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/26154022/Liam-McNeeley-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/26154022/Liam-McNeeley-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/26154022/Liam-McNeeley-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/26154022/Liam-McNeeley-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/26154022/Liam-McNeeley-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/26154022/Liam-McNeeley-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/26154022/Liam-McNeeley.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption> LIAM MCNEELEY F 30 OF THE UCONN HUSKIES during NCAA, College League, USA Basketball game between New Hampshire Wildcats at UConn Huskies </figcaption></figure>



Fortunately for the program, McNeeley wasn’t an idiot. More than that, the forward has helped the team win six consecutive games since that disastrous run in Hawaii.


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During that span, he’s averaged 16.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, and he’s also been a disruptive defender as well. Now, coach Hurley’s team is right back in the mix as one of the best in the nation.

NCAAB News: Dan Hurley makes hilarious 'idiot' remark about UConn player

NCAAB News: Dan Hurley makes hilarious 'idiot' remark about UConn player - Bolavip US

Dan Hurley turned down a very lucrative offer to coach the Los Angeles Lakers. Instead of leaving<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> college basketball</a> for the NBA’s bright lights, he stood pat at UConn.



The Huskies have won the past two NCAA national championships, and with Hurley being in full control, it was hard to walk away from that kind of structure, even for the pros.



They’re now 10-3 for the season, and while some believe they’re not as strong in years past, coach Hurley does. Still, when asked about last year’s roster, the coach admitted that chemistry was unmatched. 



<h2>Dan Hurley raves about 2024 Huskies</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Last year’s team was just well put together personality-wise. We just complemented each other in every way. Played such a level of bullet-proof basketball. No weaknesses,“ Hurley told the Huskies’ video department.</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241223_BUS_299098_Dan-Hurley-1-1024x576_82084b16.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-287065" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151240/Dan-Hurley-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151240/Dan-Hurley-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151240/Dan-Hurley-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151240/Dan-Hurley-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151240/Dan-Hurley-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151240/Dan-Hurley-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151240/Dan-Hurley-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/05151240/Dan-Hurley-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>St. Louis, Missouri, U.S – Rhode Island Rams head coach DAN HURLEY applauds his teams work on the court during a regular season conference game between the Saint Louis Billikens and the Rhode Island Rams where Rhode Island defeats Saint Louis by the score of 90-56, held at The Chaifetz Arena in St. Louis, MO NCAA College League USA Basketball 2016 -RI beats SLU 90-5</figcaption></figure>



Junior forward Alex Karaban has been with the team over the past two titles, so it was hard for him not to feel the same way as his coach regarding their championship squad:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I think it was the best college team of all time and just to do what we did in the tournament and just how dominant we were,” he said. “We lost Cam, Tristen, Steph and Donovan. It was tough losing those guys, but we got a great team this year.”</blockquote>


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The Huskies went 37-3 last season, and while it might be almost impossible to match that record this season, they’ve proven that they cannot be slept on or overlooked.

NCAAB News: Dan Hurley makes a bold statement about his championship-winning team

NCAAB News: Dan Hurley makes a bold statement about his championship-winning team - Bolavip US

It takes a special kind of talent and skill set to be a successful coach in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">college basketball</a>, whether it’s for male or female teams. Geno Auriemma sure knows a thing or two about that.



The legendary coach has been at UConn for four decades now. Needless to say, he’s made an impact in countless lives, often times being seen as a father figure for future stars.



Notably, that was the hardest part of the job. In a recent interview with Berett Ledbetter, the women’s basketball legend admitted that he had to learn how to be a father.



<h2>Geno Auriemma says he grew up without a dad</h2>



“Being an immigrant, I kinda grew up without a dad even though he worked in a factory and was home all the time,” Auriemma said. “Learning how to be a good father was really important to me. I didn’t know whether I was getting it right or not, so I was always worried about that.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241223_BUS_299099_Geno-Auriemma-1024x576_f0812a2d.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-296592" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>November 15, 2024: Conn coach Geno Auriemma tied the NCAA, College League, USA Division I record for men s or women s basketball with his 1,216th career victory Friday night as his No. 2 Huskies beat No. 14 North Carolina 69-58. NCAA basketball game between University of Connecticut and University of North Carolina at First Horizon Arena, Greensboro NC CSM Greensboro United States of America</figcaption></figure>



Still, being on the road all the time is a heavy burden, and coach Auriemma has also had to make some big sacrifices of his own to be there for his players over the years:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“My job took me away from home a lot,” Auriemma continued. “Balancing out work, being a good dad, giving yourself some Grace, and constantly being critical of myself and others, I think that’s the heaviest burden that I bring. And it’s all self-inflicted.”</blockquote>


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Auriemma is perhaps the greatest coach in women’s college basketball history, not to mention a mentor and beloved figure to countless legends. Still, most of his success didn’t have anything to do with what his team did on the court.

NCAAB News: Geno Auriemma makes heartbreaking admission about his childhood

NCAAB News: Geno Auriemma makes heartbreaking admission about his childhood - Bolavip US

Paige Bueckers was on a roll for the UConn Huskies in their latest matchup. She led the way with 22 points, but the No. 4 team couldn’t keep up with the USC Trojans on Saturday night.



Geno Auriemma’s team fell 72-70 at home. They threatened to pull off a big comeback, but the No. 7 team in the nation held their ground on defense to secure the win.



Notably, this was the second time in their careers that Bueckers squared off with fellow star JuJu Watkins. Following the game, she talked about how that kind of matchup gave her plenty of motivation.



<h2>Paige Bueckers and JuJu Watkins share praise for one another</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Definitely, playing against great players, you embrace the matchup,” Bueckers said. “You have fun in the moment. Both teams are trying to win, but yeah, matchups like these are why we play basketball.”</blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241223_BUS_299096_JuJu-Watkins-1-1024x576_3d744e73.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-299066" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/23145237/JuJu-Watkins-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>USC Trojans guard JuJu Watkins (12) looks on during the womenÕs college basketball game between the Elon Phoenix and the USC Trojans on December 15, 2024 at Galen Center in Los Angeles, CA. </figcaption></figure>



The USC guard and future WNBA superstar also had nothing but praise for her colleague. Following her 25-point performance in the win, she raved about their high-flying matchup:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“Paige is an excellent player, and I think it’s just a testament to when you give women a platform, we’re going to perform,” JuJu said. “I think that tonight was an excellent game. Super exciting, and I think as we continue to get games like this, we’ll always show up.”</blockquote>


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Geno Auriemma’s team will look to bounce back from this heartbreaking home loss on December 29 when they meet Providence. USC, on the other hand, will look to keep the ball rolling against Michigan.

NCAAB News: Paige Bueckers makes bold remark about JuJu Watkins after UConn's loss to USC

NCAAB News: Paige Bueckers makes bold remark about JuJu Watkins after UConn's loss to USC - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/college-basketball" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">College basketball </a>has come a long way. For years, fans and talking heads alike agreed that it was wrong for the NCAA to make all that money and that the players would not get a single penny of it.



The long-overdue resolution turned into the NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) era. Players are finally getting paid for their talents, and college programs are also profiting.



Nevertheless, that also put more weight on the coach’s shoulders, as they would also have to deal with finances on top of recruiting and actually coaching. Notably, that’s why UConn’s Geno Auriemma believes legends like Jay Wright or Mike ‘Coach K’ Krzyzweski decided to retire.



<h2>Geno Auriemma says NIL was a different challenge for old coaches</h2>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“I think it was a little bit of both. I think there’s certainly a different challenge now than there’s ever been,” Auriemma told Boomer Esiason. “I think a lot of us older coaches that have been around the game for a long, long time.” </blockquote>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20241219_BUS_296604_Geno-Auriemma-1024x576_ae5d976b.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-296592" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/19150222/Geno-Auriemma.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>November 15, 2024: Conn coach Geno Auriemma tied the NCAA, College League, USA Division I record for men s or women s basketball with his 1,216th career victory Friday night as his No. 2 Huskies beat No. 14 North Carolina 69-58. NCAA basketball game between University of Connecticut and University of North Carolina at First Horizon Arena, Greensboro NC CSM Greensboro United States of America</figcaption></figure>



Eventually, given everything that those coaches had accomplished in the past, perhaps they would be better off calling it a career and finally getting some well-deserved rest:



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote">“You all have to adapt and you all have to change, but some of the things that are happening right now … it’s really not great … certainly for the coaches — it’s enough to give you a pause,” Auriemma added. “And I think if you’ve had a lot of success in your career and you’re not chasing anything, you can say it’s time.”</blockquote>


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It’s only right that athletes finally get financially compensated for their hard work, especially since most of them won’t play professionally. Still, for better or worse, the NIL era has changed college sports.

NCAAB News: Geno Auriemma claims the NIL era forced Coach K to retire

NCAAB News: Geno Auriemma claims the NIL era forced Coach K to retire - Bolavip US

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