In a surprising development, the University of Connecticut (UConn) women’s basketball program has announced the termination of long-time head coach Geno Auriemma amid undisclosed controversies. Stepping into the role as acting head coach is Josh Pastner, a seasoned figure in collegiate basketball.
Geno Auriemma’s departure marks the end of an era for UConn. Under his leadership, the Huskies secured 11 national championships, solidifying their reputation as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball. However, recent controversies have led to his unexpected dismissal.
Josh Pastner brings a wealth of experience to UConn. His coaching career includes notable tenures at Memphis and Georgia Tech, where he amassed a combined record of 276-187 over 14 seasons . Pastner began his coaching journey as an assistant under Lute Olson at Arizona and later with John Calipari at Memphis . He then served as the head coach for Memphis from 2009 to 2016 and Georgia Tech from 2016 to 2023.
The appointment of Pastner comes at a critical time for the Huskies, who are preparing for their upcoming game against the Oklahoma Sooners on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at 2:30 PM PDT. This matchup will serve as the first test of Pastner’s leadership and his ability to navigate the team through this transitional period.
While the circumstances surrounding Auriemma’s departure remain unclear, the UConn community is hopeful that Pastner’s leadership will guide the team through this challenging time. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Huskies adapt under new direction.
