Unstoppable Duo: How Paige Bueckers and Geno Auriemma Elevate UConn’s Championship Dreams

SPOKANE, Wash. — When Paige Bueckers and UConn coach Geno Auriemma wrapped up their Elite Eight victory, they sat together at a press conference. Auriemma had his eyes on the box score, not just Bueckers’ 31 points, her perfect shooting from three, or her all-around impact. Instead, he frowned at her four turnovers. It was a teaching moment.

“What was that?” he asked.

Bueckers shot back with a grin: “I got it back! Four steals.”

Auriemma laughed, acknowledging her point. Even with the mistakes, Bueckers was a key player who helped lead the team. Her positive mindset, focused on what she did for the win, is something Auriemma admires.

“This is what I did to help us win. I’m not worried about the other stuff,” he said, reflecting on her mentality.

Bueckers’ attitude perfectly complements Auriemma’s coaching style, which often focuses on preparing for worst-case scenarios. While he often highlights what went wrong, she keeps the team grounded, reminding everyone of their achievements. Together, they make a strong duo, driving UConn forward to the Final Four once again.

After UConn defeated USC 78-64, the mood was celebratory but restrained. Players embraced, confetti flew, but there wasn’t an extravagant celebration. Instead, a staff member placed the UConn sticker on the tournament bracket, a quiet nod to their success.

Traditionally, UConn doesn’t cut down nets for just making it to the Final Four. They save that for national championships, which, for Auriemma and Bueckers, is still on the horizon.

Why does this matter? Auriemma has created a unique culture at UConn, with Bueckers helping to carry that legacy forward. He joked that there are three fantasy worlds: Disneyland, Disney World, and UConn. Over the past 17 years, they’ve consistently made it to the Final Four.

Bueckers joined UConn to chase titles. Although she has reached the Final Four, the coveted national championship eludes her. Auriemma has led teams to this stage many times, but this time feels distinct as he hopes to win it all for Bueckers, who has faced injuries and setbacks but has remained resilient.

With the game evolving, monitoring issues like player compensation through NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals has become part of the landscape. Auriemma watches Bueckers navigate this challenging world with grace, something he appreciates deeply.

“Winning a national title requires a special player,” he said. “She’s that player for us.”

Bueckers’ determination and optimism push not just herself but her teammates to perform their best. Amid challenges, she believes they can succeed.

After their victory over USC, Auriemma reflected on how much he would miss her. But with potential still ahead—two more games and the chance to win it all—a bright future remains for both Bueckers and the program.

This combination of skills, leadership, and optimism might just lead UConn to another championship. With Bueckers at the helm and Auriemma’s experience, they believe their journey isn’t over yet.

For more on the impact of NIL in college sports, check out this NCAA report.

Check out this related article: Stanford Welcomes Former Colts Coach Frank Reich as New Interim Head Coach

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Connecticut Huskies, Women's College Basketball