UConn women’s basketball coach Geno Auriemma appeared on College GameDay last week prior to his team’s matchup with the South Carolina Gamecocks in Columbia.
While on the show, Auriemma shared an entertaining story about his past coaching experiences with Chiney Ogwumike, a standout player at Stanford and one of the show’s hosts. His story highlighted their competitive history and the friendly banter that came with it.
Geno Auriemma Recalls Funny Moment with Chiney Ogwumike
During the segment, Auriemma was asked about how his coaching style had evolved over the years.
“I tried to smell the roses, but I got poked by thorns,” he joked. “…we had won 99 in a row. We played at Stanford. She fouled out. I think her job was just to foul Maya Moore. As she fouls out, she walks over to me as she’s leaving the court. Gives me a big hug.
“‘I love you, Coach, but you’re going to lose today,'” he recounted her bragging.
“Oh, wow. I can’t believe you still remember that. Yes, we did get the win,” Ogwumike, one of the show’s hosts, said as she embraced Auriemma.
Ogwumike, who played for Stanford, is known for her competitive spirit, and Auriemma’s story highlights that. Despite her on-court intensity, it was clear there was mutual respect between the two. Auriemma’s recollection emphasized how even in moments of competition, there is room for humor and camaraderie.
Chiney Ogwumike’s New Basketball Role
Chiney Ogwumike has transitioned into a new role—this time off the court. Recently, she was named the first female Basketball Africa League (BAL) ambassador, expanding her influence in the basketball world.
This role was announced during the Africa Luncheon at NBA All-Star Weekend in San Francisco by BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall. As an ambassador, Ogwumike plans to use her platform to inspire young girls and women across Africa, promoting the growth of basketball in the region.
In her new position, Ogwumike will focus on gender equity in sports and the sustainable development of basketball in Africa. She will be involved in various events and clinics throughout the BAL season, starting with April’s Kalahari Conference in Morocco.
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Ogwumike’s advocacy aims to give young women in Africa opportunities to engage with basketball and develop their skills. Her commitment to improving the sport’s presence on the continent reflects her passion for empowering women.
Ogwumike is dedicated to growing the game of basketball in a gender-inclusive manner. She expressed gratitude when speaking about her new role with the BAL.
“I am grateful for this tremendous opportunity to continue to inspire, uplift, and help grow the game across the continent, especially for young women and girls. Basketball has given me so much, and now, I get to give back in a way that creates real impact and celebrates my sisters on the continent,” she stated.
The future of basketball in Africa looks promising, with leaders like Ogwumike championing the cause. As the first-ever female BAL ambassador, she is uniquely positioned to inspire change and provide young athletes with the necessary resources to succeed.
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