It's been a month since the infamous sideline incident between UConn's Geno Auriemma and South Carolina's Dawn Staley became one of the biggest sports stories of the year. Though Auriemma has tried to apologize, his reputation has taken a pretty big blow from people who once respected him.
On Monday, Auriemma spoke to the media and admitted that he wishes he could have had that moment back. He said that he felt dumb for acting in the way that he did and wishes he had given just five seconds to shake Staley's hand after his team's loss and avoid the drama that ensued.
"You do things on the spur of the moment sometimes, but they usually come from things that have been building up for some time," Auriemma said, via FoxNews.com. "When I walked into the locker room afterward, you’re just shaking your head going, five more seconds, you couldn't keep it in for five more seconds? I just feel like a [expletive] for the way it played out. We are all human and we all do dumb [expletive].
"I wish I had those five seconds back. But that’s not how it works."
The Incident
As UConn Huskies lost to South Carolina Gamecocks 62–48, tensions that had been building throughout the game – particularly over officiating, physical play, and a perceived pregame handshake slight – boiled over in the final moments.
Auriemma approached Staley near the end of the game and initiated a heated verbal exchange, which continued into the postgame handshake line and had to be de-escalated by staff.
Apr 4, 2026; Phoenix, AZ, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Dawn Staley speaks to the media during a press conference at the Final Four National Championship Practice at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images© Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The confrontation quickly went viral and became one of the biggest storylines of the tournament. Auriemma initially defended his frustration but later apologized, admitting he lost control of his emotions and regretted how the moment played out.
Staley downplayed the situation afterward, saying she had moved on and emphasizing mutual respect between the two coaches.
But while Staley was willing to let it go, fans were not. Many felt that it further reinforced why the late-great Pat Summitt didn't appreciate Auriemma and are likely to believe for a long time to come that his behavior overshadows his accomplishments.
This story was originally published by The Spun on May 5, 2026, where it first appeared in the College Basketball section. Add The Spun as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
