Watch Dawn Staley, Geno Auriemma heated altercation in tense Final Four battle
The NCAA college basketball’s March Madness brings out the best in all athletes. The tournament consistently delivers dramatic and memorable moments that create the sports spectacle. It also creates heated moments fueled by the passion of competition.
On Friday night, the women’s basketball Final Four featured a matchup between UConn and South Carolina. South Carolina pulled away with the victory, and tensions flared immediately afterward. MORE: 9 legendary coaches who dominated Final Four weekend Head coach Dawn Staley and head coach Geno Auriemma exchanged handshakes at the final buzzer.
Auriemma said something to Staley that she did not receive well. The two engaged in a heated argument before assistant coaches separated them. The game was an emotional, hard-fought battle deep into the March Madness tournament.
ESPN captured the exchange, and fans quickly reacted to the scene. Fans and media alike have criticized Auriemma, who many refer to by his first name. It remains unclear what exactly led to the sudden rise in emotions.
However, ESPN interviewed Auriemma immediately after the game. MORE: Duke legend Mike Krzyzewski surprises Pat McAfee with March Madness gift Not only did he express disappointment in the officiating during the third quarter, but he also pointed to Dawn’s alleged behavior. He told ESPN , “”Their coach rants and raves on the sidelines and calls the referees some names you don’t want to hear.