UConn head coach Geno Auriemma was involved in a heated confrontation with South Carolina counterpart Dawn Staley in the final seconds of Friday's women's Final Four loss in Phoenix. Auriemma had to be physically pulled away from Staley by officials and assistants after a tense post-game handshake attempt, with words exchanged that visibly angered Staley.
The incident followed Auriemma's explosive in-game interview where he criticized both Staley and the officiating, claiming his team was "getting the st beat out of them" without foul calls. He specifically referenced Staley's sideline behavior and a torn jersey on UConn star Sarah Strong.
Post-game, Staley expressed confusion over Auriemma's anger, asserting her integrity and noting she had shaken hands pre-game. Auriemma offered little clarification, stating simply, "I said what I said. I just told the truth." The confrontation marred South Carolina's 62-48 victory, which sends them to the national championship game against UCLA.