The University of Connecticut has announced that Geno Auriemma, the esteemed coach of the UConn women’s basketball team, has signed a five-year contract extension that will see him remain in his role until the 2028-29 season. This extension will make him the highest-paid women’s basketball coach in the country, with a starting salary of $3.34 million for the first season and a subsequent $200,000 raise each year.
In a statement released by the university, Auriemma expressed his astonishment at having dedicated over half of his life to UConn. He also conveyed his optimism for the team’s future and his determination to continue guiding them with the same fervour and dedication. This extension signifies his 40th season with the UConn team.
Auriemma is just four wins away from surpassing former Stanford women’s basketball coach Tara VanDerveer as the all-time winningest coach in both men’s and women’s college basketball history. This significant milestone is a testament to his coaching expertise and commitment to the sport. VanDerveer, who held the record with 1,216 wins, retired in April after 45 years of coaching.
Despite facing various challenges, such as injuries to key players, Auriemma and the UConn team experienced exceptional success this past season, including an impressive Final Four run led by standout athletes such as Paige Bueckers, Aaliyah Edwards, and Nika Mühl. This marked a fitting return to national prominence for the team following an unexpected early exit from the previous season’s tournament.
The upcoming 2024-25 season holds promise for the UConn Huskies as they welcome back several talented players, alongside top recruits from the 2024 class. The team is poised to be a strong contender for the national title, provided they can maintain their health and fitness throughout the season.
Auriemma’s contract extension provides a sense of stability and continuity for the UConn women’s basketball program, particularly at a time when several other long-serving coaches have recently retired. This commitment from Auriemma reinforces the program’s dedication to excellence and signals to both current and prospective players that the team’s legacy will continue to thrive under his leadership.
In conclusion, Auriemma’s extension is a testament to his enduring impact on UConn and the sport of basketball, reflecting his unwavering dedication to the team and its future success. It underscores the university’s commitment to upholding standards of excellence and the pursuit of continued success.