Overview
- Auriemma, who addressed reporters Monday at UConn, said he “felt like a dumbass” over the late-game exchange with South Carolina’s Dawn Staley and wished he had held his tongue for five more seconds.
- He acknowledged the backlash and said he “brought the criticism on myself,” while arguing the broader online commotion grew beyond his actions.
- The flare-up began in the final seconds of South Carolina’s 62-48 win on April 3, when the coaches exchanged words, had to be separated, and Auriemma left without the customary handshake.
- After an initial statement that did not name Staley, Auriemma later apologized directly following a conversation with her, and Staley publicly urged fans to turn the page and affirmed her respect for his career.
- No fines have been issued, UConn’s 54-game win streak ended with the loss that capped a 38-1 season, and Auriemma says his focus is now on preparing next year’s team.