Another name has been added to the long list of legends. Sue Bird just got inducted into the Naismith Hall of Fame. She was accompanied by another WNBA great and an inspirational figure for UConn players and fans, Maya Moore. Sue Bird made sure to mention Geno Auriemma in her speech. However, he might not be the happiest with that mention.
Sue Bird brutally roasted Geno Auriemma with him on the same stage. Coach Auriemma has always shared a special bond with his players. Even though his strict demeanour is a big part of his personality, few of the UConn stars have brought out his fun side over the years. This was just another example of Auriemma and Bird’s banter-filled relationship.
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“Coach Auriemma all those years ago, you gave me the most important piece of advice I’ve ever received. I mean I guess he gave a lot of advice because you talk a lot but this was really the one that I remember.” Sue Bird took a playful shot at Geno. Coach looked away and played along with a disgusted expression while holding back laughter.
“It’s not often you get to take shots and he doesn’t have a mic to comeback”, Bird continued, sending the audience into splits. Geno pretended to throw a bottle at her as she continued further, “You said basketball is not a game of how to, it’s a game of when to. I built my career around it.”
WNBA and UConn’s IG accounts collaborated to share the snippet from her speech.
Sue Bird’s career under Geno Auriemma at UConn
Bird’s UConn career started slow when she could only play 8 games in her freshman season. However, greatness awaited her. Geno had a strong squad with Sue Bird his marquee player. Bird won her first and Auriemma’s 2nd NCAA championships in her sophomore season.
In 2000, Bird had started making waves in the basketball world. In her last and final season with UConn, Bird led them to another NCAA championship as a senior. Another legend, Diana Taurasi, was in her sophomore season, and she blended perfectly with Bird.
Bird averaged just over 10 in her college career. Even though that number might feel underwhelming in this era of basketball, her contribution was unmatched on court for Geno’s plan. With an average of 5 assists per game, Bird was a vital part of UConn. Her leadership and energy always brought UConn out of deep holes. Now after over 2 decades Sue Bird has entered the Hall of Fame with Geno Auriemma right beside her. A perfect story!
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