Geno Auriemma Praises Dawn Staley Amid South Carolina’s Dominance Over UConn
Despite being one of the most successful coaches in women’s college basketball history, UConn’s Geno Auriemma hasn’t shied away from giving credit where it’s due—especially when it comes to South Carolina’s Dawn Staley. In recent years, Staley and her Gamecocks have emerged as a powerhouse, establishing clear dominance over Auriemma’s Huskies in head-to-head matchups.
The turning point in the rivalry came on February 10, 2020, when South Carolina defeated UConn 70–52 in a commanding performance that marked the first win for the Gamecocks over the Huskies in program history. That victory didn’t just snap UConn’s previously undefeated record against South Carolina—it marked the beginning of a shift in the balance of power in women’s basketball.
From that moment on, Dawn Staley’s team continued to rise, while UConn struggled with injuries and inconsistency. Between 2020 and 2024, South Carolina went undefeated in head-to-head matchups against UConn, further solidifying their position as the top team in the country. During that span, South Carolina’s defense, depth, and physicality consistently overwhelmed UConn, even as the Huskies remained a perennial Final Four contender.
Auriemma, never one to downplay excellence, has spoken with admiration about Staley’s ability to build a dominant program. He acknowledged her recruiting prowess, her team’s discipline, and their gritty playing style. “What Dawn has done at South Carolina is nothing short of remarkable,” Auriemma said. “They’ve set the standard. We’re all chasing them now.”
Indeed, by 2024, South Carolina had won multiple SEC titles, two national championships, and had gone undefeated in more than one season, including their most recent title run. Meanwhile, UConn, while still elite, faced uncharacteristic struggles against the Gamecocks’ relentless frontcourt and depth.
Despite the sting of the rivalry losses, Auriemma remains respectful and even appreciative of the new landscape of women’s basketball. In his view, Staley’s rise doesn’t diminish UConn’s legacy—it enhances the sport as a whole. “You want to beat the best,” Auriemma said, “and right now, the best is in Columbia.”
As the rivalry continues, it’s clear that mutual respect runs deep, even when championships are on the line.
Would you like this tailored for a social media post, article, or speech?
Leave a Reply