Geno Auriemma and Kathy: A Love Story Behind UConn’s Success

STORRS, Conn. — Geno Auriemma, the head coach of the University of Connecticut women’s basketball team, has spent 40 years building an unparalleled dynasty in women’s sports. Central to his success is his college sweetheart and wife, Kathy Auriemma, who he describes as his most trusted confidante. Their journey began during their college days at Montgomery County Junior College, where a fateful encounter laid the foundation for a long-lasting partnership.

The couple met while Geno played on the basketball team and Kathy was a cheerleader. “We were supposed to meet after the game, but everyone else bailed,” Geno recalled. “I didn’t want to give her a ride home, but I eventually did, and the rest is history.” The two married in 1978, and Kathy has remained a constant source of support throughout Geno’s storied coaching career.

“I’ve been exceptionally lucky,” Geno said recently. “I’ve had the good fortune of having a partner who understands and believes in what I’m doing.” Their marriage has produced three children: Alysa, Jenna, and Michael, and the couple now has four grandchildren.

Former player Stefanie Dolson reflected on Kathy’s role within the UConn community: “When you think of the brains of UConn basketball, you think of coach Auriemma. But when you think of the heart, you think of Mrs. A.” Kathy’s unwavering dedication has made her a “second mom” to many players, strengthening the familial atmosphere that is a hallmark of the program.

Alysa Auriemma described her mother’s independent spirit as crucial to her parents’ successful marriage, emphasizing the balance Kathy maintains as she navigates time away from Geno during the basketball season. “My mom shrugs it off,” Alysa said. “She’s a handler, like Scandal’s Olivia Pope.” Kathy has participated in many alumni weddings, further cementing her closeness with former players.

The Auriemmas’ family roots run deep in Connecticut. After purchasing a local restaurant, they rebranded it as Café Aura, continuing to nurture their community ties. Geno has led UConn to unprecedented heights in women’s basketball, with 11 NCAA championships and over 1,200 career wins, effectively reshaping the sport at the collegiate level.

Even as Geno takes the team to the Final Four again this year, where they will face USC, he attributes much of his success to the support from Kathy and their family. “The culture of family within the UConn community is a large, important cog in the machine,” Alysa noted.

As the Auriemmas prepare to celebrate another basketball milestone, their love story remains a steadfast foundation for both their family and the UConn women’s basketball legacy.