UConn women’s basketball head coach Geno Auriemma made a striking admission on Monday, providing insight into his team’s mindset ahead of the women’s NCAA tournament.
Auriemma, known for leading the powerhouse UConn program, surprisingly labeled his No. 3-seeded Huskies as underdogs, a designation rarely attached to the storied team.
This departure from the norm reflects a shift in the landscape of women’s college basketball and sets the stage for an intriguing tournament run.
The Huskies, seeded third in the Portland 3 Regional, confront a field brimming with heightened competition this season.
The Huskies as Underdogs
Their journey has been fraught with challenges, including injuries to key players like Azzi Fudd and Caroline Ducharme, which have tested the team’s depth.
A notable setback occurred when Aaliyah Edwards, UConn’s All-American forward, suffered a broken nose during the Big East Tournament.However, she has since returned to practice, donning a protective face mask.
Reflecting on his tenure since 1985, Auriemma acknowledged the evolution of both the program and the sport. He highlighted the increased competitiveness and elevated standards that now characterize women’s college basketball.
Despite maintaining a top-tier recruiting class annually, Auriemma noted challenges arising from the financial incentives offered to student-athletes by other programs.
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Auriemma’s Unshakeable Belief in UConn’s Potential
Acknowledging the changes, Auriemma’s commitment to excellence remains steadfast. He finds motivation in the newfound underdog status of his team, emphasizing the drive derived from defying expectations.
Auriemma’s defiance in the face of doubters underscores his unwavering belief in the Huskies’ ability to excel on the court.
As the tournament approaches, UConn prepares to host No. 14 Jackson State in the first round on Saturday.
This matchup serves as the initial test in their quest to defy odds and reclaim their dominance in women’s college basketball.
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