When Geno Auriemma revealed what he said to Dan Hurley before UConn HC considered the Lakers job: “We had a good laugh” 

UConn legendary coach Geno Auriemma shared an amusing story about his reaction to rumors linking UConn men’s basketball coach Dan Hurley to the LA Lakers. On "The Dan Patrick Show" in June, Auriemma recalled a lighthearted moment between the two coaches just before the buzz about Hurley’s potential move to the NBA surfaced.

Auriemma shared how he and Hurley were together the night before the rumors gained traction, completely unaware of what was about to unfold. In the spur of the moment, Auriemma leaned over to Hurley and joked about his chances of success with the Lakers.

“You know, this is really funny because I was with him last night and had no idea what was going on,” Auriemma said. “I didn’t know where this was headed or what was happening.

“I said, ‘Hey, I think you can win a lot of championships with the Lakers. More so than a guy who has never coached.' He just looked at me and nodded and we had a good laugh.”

The timing of Auriemma’s remark seemed almost prophetic as he woke up the following morning to a message about the potential NBA move.

“I woke up the next morning, and somebody sent it (LA Lakers move) to me,” Auriemma said. "'You’ve got to be kidding me.'"

While Auriemma emphasized that he didn't know the seriousness of Hurley’s connection to the Lakers, but acknowledged the gravity such a move would have on UConn basketball.

“It will be a bad day for UConn for sure if this happens,” Auriemma said. “But it will also be a great day for Dan Hurley, a very sweet day for him.”

Auriemma’s mix of humor and genuine admiration for Hurley’s coaching prowess was evident in his comments.

Geno Auriemma praises Azzi Fudd’s performance

After No. 7-ranked UConn’s blowout 81-27 victory over Xavier on Wednesday, Huskies coach Geno Auriemma shared his thoughts on Azzi Fudd’s standout performance, emphasizing her versatility and resilience during the game.

Fudd, who suffered a right knee injury that kept her out for the majority of last season, showcased her ability as one of UConn's crucial players. Auriemma started by reflecting on Fudd’s initial adjustment to the game, acknowledging the challenges of returning to full form.

“I just think when you haven’t played a lot, the first three or four trips up the floor are the hardest,” Auriemma said after the game. “I just thought she was laboring a little bit.”

However, Auriemma expressed confidence in Fudd’s ability to push through the early moments of fatigue and find her rhythm.

“I thought she would come out,” Auriemma said. “Get her second wind, and then go back out, she’d be okay.”

What stood out most to Auriemma was Fudd’s well-rounded offensive performance, combining her skills to reach her peak potential.

“When it’s a little bit of everything, that’s when she’s playing her best,” Auriemma said. “When it’s a little bit of attacking the basket, pull-ups, threes, that’s when Azzi is at her best.”

Fudd's performance was instrumental in securing the win for the UConn Huskies. She led the team with 23 points, on 9 of 14 shooting in 20 minutes. Fudd also added two rebounds and three steals.