Luigi “Geno” Auriemma is a distinguished American basketball coach, renowned for his exceptional leadership as the head coach of the UConn Huskies women’s basketball team since 1985. Under his guidance, the program has achieved unprecedented success, including 11 NCAA Division I national championships, the most in women’s college basketball history. Auriemma holds the record for the most wins (1,235) and the highest winning percentage (.882) among college coaches with a minimum of 10 seasons, showcasing his remarkable consistency and excellence in coaching.

Auriemma’s coaching career began at Bishop McDevitt High School, followed by a stint as an assistant coach at Saint Joseph’s University. His transition to UConn marked a turning point for the program, which had only one winning season prior to his arrival. Auriemma quickly transformed the Huskies into a powerhouse, leading them to their first-ever 20-win season and NCAA Tournament appearance. His tenure has been characterized by numerous accolades, including 17 undefeated conference seasons and three NCAA record streaks of consecutive wins.

In addition to his success at the collegiate level, Auriemma served as the head coach of the United States women’s national basketball team from 2009 to 2016. During this period, his teams won gold medals at the 2012 and 2016 Summer Olympics and secured World Championship titles in 2010 and 2014, demonstrating his ability to cultivate talent on an international stage.

Auriemma’s impact extends beyond the court; he is also known for mentoring numerous All-America players who have gone on to achieve significant success in their careers. His commitment to player development is evident, as every recruited freshman who completed their eligibility at UConn has graduated. Auriemma’s legacy is not only defined by his impressive record but also by his contributions to the growth of women’s basketball and his philanthropic efforts in the community.