From EssentiallySports · Siddharth Rawat · · 1m 10s
Dawn Staley Clarifies Handshake Rivalry With Auriemma
Dawn Staley explains why her viral handshake clash with Geno Auriemma doesn't reflect their rivalry.
In brief
Dawn Staley explains why her viral handshake clash with Geno Auriemma doesn't reflect their rivalry. Dawn Staley says the handshake incident with Geno Auriemma was never the main issue in their long-standing rivalry. Originally reported by EssentiallySports.
Dawn Staley's Handshake History
Dawn Staley had to force herself to congratulate Geno Auriemma after UConn beat her by 20, 30, or 40 points for years.
Viral Final Four Confrontation
South Carolina beat UConn 62-48 in the national semifinal on April 3, 2026, ending the Huskies' 54-game winning streak.
Handshake Incident Details
Auriemma and Staley met at mid-court with about a second left, exchanged heated words, and were separated by staff.
Staley's Perspective
Staley made a point to shake Auriemma's hand after games to build acclimation, even if she felt differently.
Auriemma's Apology
Auriemma apologized for the confrontation the day after it happened, saying he felt dumb for how it played out.
Staley's Clarification
Staley says the handshake incident was never the whole story, emphasizing respect for Auriemma despite rivalry.
At a glance
Dawn Staley says the handshake incident with Geno Auriemma was never the main issue in their long-standing rivalry.
