Winning has long been part of the culture at UConn Huskies under head coach Geno Auriemma, who has built one of the most successful programs in college basketball, and he recently shared a heartwarming look at what truly drives the team’s culture.

According to Auriemma, the Huskies have created a close-knit environment where players support each other both on and off the court.

He explained that the team is united by a shared goal and a genuine desire to play for one another (via CT Insider). “They're kind of a team that is really bonded together on a common goal. They just want to spend time together, and they want to play hard for each other. What more can you ask?” said the 71-year-old.

While talking about this team’s chemistry and leadership, Geno Auriemma repeatedly described the UConn Huskies women's basketball as “weird,” saying he rarely sees a group this close without one clear leader.

“It’s weird. It’s really, really, really weird,” Auriemma said, before adding, “This is just a weird group, man. They’re a weird bunch.”

Although Auriemma has coached several tight-knit teams before, including his six undefeated squads, he explained, “Those teams, they all had an alpha-type person that ran the operation,” also adding that sometimes two or three leaders managed things while still winning championships. But the UConn pack is different.

He also noted that today’s players don’t usually step into the huddle and challenge teammates the same way as before. Instead, Auriemma believes this year’s chemistry comes from shared leadership among the players, something he doesn’t often see.

And yet with all the success, Geno Auriemma still isn’t fully satisfied with one thing.

Geno Auriemma Pushes UConn Huskies to Attack the Rim

Geno Auriemma admitted after the game that he still wishes the UConn Huskies women's basketball played more one-on-one basketball and attacked the basket more often.

“I complain all the time that we don’t play one-on-one basketball enough. You know, I complain that we don’t attack the basket enough,” Auriemma said during the postgame press conference earlier this month.

He pointed to Sara’s performance as an example, saying she was more aggressive by putting the ball on the floor and making plays.

Auriemma explained that basketball ultimately comes down to simple decisions in those moments. “I catch it, you’re guarding me, and now I have to make a decision. Do I shoot it? Do I drive it? Do I pass it?”

Auriemma also emphasized that good one-on-one chances often come from strong passing. He said his teams have always focused heavily on passing, catching, and moving without the ball, which is why UConn consistently ranks among the nation’s top teams in assists.

So, do you think UConn’s “weird” leadership style gives them an edge over more alpha-driven teams?

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Written by

Sauramita Debbarma

Edited by

Souvik Roy