Geno Auriemma discusses sideline altercation with Dawn Staley after Final Four

Geno Auriemma, after UConn's 62-48 loss to South Carolina in the Final Four on April 3, 2026, reflected on his sideline altercation with Dawn Staley. Auriemma expressed his disappointment over Staley not participating in the customary handshake, citing it as a matter of respect. He later apologized for his reaction after criticism and elaborated on his frustration regarding officiating during the third quarter of the game, pointing out the lack of fouls called against South Carolina in a highly physical matchup. Auriemma's remarks came during an appearance on the “Glass Half Full” podcast.

• 10:11 PMYahoo Sports — “She Doesn’t Come Out; That Bothered Me”: Geno Auriemma Revisits His Sideline Outburst with Dawn Staley over “Time Honored Tradition”