The UConn Huskies continued their dominant season with a 91-49 win over Seton Hall on February 19, improving to 25-3. While the final score suggests an easy victory, head coach Geno Auriemma was not pleased with his team’s first-half effort.
After an intense win against South Carolina just days earlier, UConn came out flat, prompting Auriemma to voice his frustration at halftime. Despite this, the Huskies found their rhythm in the second half and secured a decisive win.
UConn Handles Seton Hall Despite Auriemma’s Frustration
Expectations were high after UConn’s impressive performance against South Carolina, but the team failed to carry that energy into the first half against Seton Hall. Speaking to SNY’s Chelsea Sherrod at halftime, Auriemma did not hold back his criticism.
“No momentum carried over into this game. No momentum at all… Kids are immature today, man. We go down there and get a great win, and they think that win is going to make these guys roll over… This is nonsense,” Auriemma said, as reported by Daniel Connolly on X.
An angry Geno to SNY at the half: “No momentum carried over into this game. No momentum at all… Kids are immature today, man. We go down there and get a great win and they think that win is going to make these guys roll over… This is nonsense.”
— Daniel Connolly (@DanielVConnolly) February 20, 2025
He also pointed out the rebounding struggles. “I said after the South Carolina game that we would get out-rebounded tonight, and I think we are getting out-rebounded.”
UConn had just a 41-26 lead at halftime, and despite the score, Auriemma’s frustration was clear. UConn responded to their coach’s criticism with a dominant second half, outscoring Seton Hall 50-23.
By the end of the game, the Huskies had pulled down 35 rebounds compared to Seton Hall’s 21. Auriemma’s challenge seemed to fuel the team, as they played with more aggression and control in the final two quarters.
Second-Half Turnaround Leads To Blowout Win
Even though UConn was in control at halftime, Auriemma’s high expectations drove home the point that the team still had work to do. The Huskies have looked like a championship contender at times this season, but struggles in marquee matchups against USC and Notre Dame have raised concerns about their ability to close out big games.
UConn’s win against South Carolina showed that they can compete at the highest level. Azzi Fudd had one of her best games of the season, which helped UConn pull away even as Paige Bueckers struggled from the field. The Huskies also locked in defensively, limiting South Carolina’s opportunities in the paint.
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Auriemma has consistently emphasized that this team has the potential to be a serious NCAA Tournament contender. With back-to-back strong performances, UConn is beginning to build the momentum they need for March.
If they can maintain this level of play, they will be a tough opponent for any team in the tournament. Despite Auriemma’s frustrations, his team’s second-half response proved that they are capable of making a deep postseason run.
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