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UConn Coach Auriemma Slams NCAA's Women's Tournament Format

3/29/2025

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Summary

Auriemma Critiques Format

UConn women's coach Geno Auriemma passionately condemned the NCAA's two-site regional format for the women's basketball tournament, claiming it has "ruined the game." He pointed out the logistical nightmares, such as inconvenient early practices and travel hurdles, that deter fans from attending. His outcry echoes a growing discontent in women's basketball, with this format set to persist until 2028.

Summary

Auriemma Addresses Injuries

UConn coach Geno Auriemma voiced serious worries about the alarming rise of ACL injuries in women's basketball, especially following USC's JuJu Watkins' heartbreaking season-ending injury. He empathized with players like Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd, acknowledging the profound emotional toll these injuries take on teams during pivotal tournament moments.

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Auriemma Critiques Format

UConn women's coach Geno Auriemma passionately condemned the NCAA's two-site regional format for the women's basketball tournament, claiming it has "ruined the game." He pointed out the logistical nightmares, such as inconvenient early practices and travel hurdles, that deter fans from attending. His outcry echoes a growing discontent in women's basketball, with this format set to persist until 2028.

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