STORRS, Conn. — Geno Auriemma, the legendary coach of the UConn women’s basketball team, has officially become the winningest coach in NCAA basketball history. On Wednesday night, Auriemma achieved his 1,217th career victory as his team decisively defeated Fairleigh Dickinson with an impressive score of 85-41. This remarkable win sent Auriemma past former Stanford coach Tara VanDerveer, who held the record until her retirement in April.
In front of a sold-out crowd at Gampel Pavilion, which included over 60 former players, Auriemma celebrated this momentous occasion with his team and fans. His record-setting win is also his 329th career victory by at least 40 points, showcasing the consistent dominance he has had throughout his tenure. “We never sat down and said, ‘Hey let’s make a 40-year plan and see if we can make this happen,'” Auriemma said after the game. “It’s about coming here every day and trying to be better than we were yesterday.”
This game wasn’t just about breaking records; it also marked the 40th season of Auriemma and his longtime associate coach Chris Dailey at UConn. To mark their ruby anniversary, fans were treated to a fan fest complete with a goat petting zoo and special ice cream flavors at the school’s Dairy Bar. Many former UConn players, including legends like Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird, participated in the postgame tribute, reminiscing about the impact that Auriemma has had on their lives and careers.
The celebration included festive confetti and signs from the student section displaying “1,217.” UConn’s athletic department even presented special ladders from Nike to both Auriemma and Dailey. There were also playful touches, such as a live goat being brought out to Auriemma, knowing his love for the animal.
Throughout the evening, the atmosphere was filled with joy and admiration for Auriemma, who, at 70 years old, reflected on his incredible journey. “It’s surreal to still be coaching,” he noted. Auriemma has consistently demonstrated an exceptional coaching record, maintaining an impressive .882 win percentage. He has now spent his entire head coaching career worth of 38 years at one school, setting a model for dedication in sports.
After the game, Gov. Ned Lamont of Connecticut also recognized Auriemma’s achievement, highlighting how his legacy is not only measured by victories but by the lives he has positively influenced over the years. “No amount of championships and no amount of numbers or awards can take the place of the lives that we’ve impacted,” Auriemma stated, emphasizing his genuine care for his players. His focus remains on the relationships forged through the game.
In conclusion, Auriemma’s landmark win at UConn not only highlights his impressive achievements but also the joyous spirit that surrounds the program. This celebration signifies both the end of a remarkable chapter and the potential for even greater stories to come in the world of college basketball.
