Legendary Coach Geno Auriemma Returns to Broadcast Booth to Call WNBA Game
On Tuesday night, UConn coach Geno Auriemma made his highly anticipated return to the broadcast booth, joining Robin Roberts and Beth Mowins to call the game between the Dallas Wings and the New York Liberty on ESPN. This reunion marked a significant milestone, as Auriemma and Roberts had previously served as a broadcast team during the WNBA’s first season, calling the very first WNBA game on ESPN, which took place on June 23, 1997.
The timing of Auriemma’s return was perfectly aligned with the WNBA’s 30th season celebration. Furthermore, the game featured a unique lineup of talent, including the three most recent No. 1 WNBA draft picks from UConn: Azzi Fudd (2026) and Paige Bueckers (2025) of the Wings, and Breanna Stewart (2016) of the Liberty. As expected, there was immense pre-game hype surrounding Auriemma’s comments about his former players on the air.
However, it was Auriemma’s remarks about a player from one of UConn’s biggest rivals that stole the show. While Stewart put up impressive numbers, scoring 29 points, grabbing nine rebounds, and dishing out four assists for the Liberty, and Bueckers and Fudd contributed 15 and 12 points, respectively, to help the Wings secure an 88-77 victory, Wings forward Jessica Shepard was the clear standout. With her third triple-double of the season under her belt, Shepard registered an impressive 22 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists. This remarkable performance earned her the title of ‘best player’ on the court, according to Auriemma.
When asked to take his temperature, Auriemma quipped, ‘I’m here singing the praises of a Notre Dame kid.’ He went on to express his admiration for Shepard, stating that she was ‘unbelievable’ and ‘worth it just to watch her play tonight.’ Auriemma’s comments about Shepard’s exceptional skills and athleticism were music to the ears of the Notre Dame alum and the Wings organization.
Auriemma’s praise for Shepard was not an isolated incident. He has a long history of acknowledging the talent of his rivals, including a notable instance in which he called rising senior Hannah Hidalgo the ‘best point guard in the nation,’ describing her as a ‘once in a lifetime’ player and the ‘Lawrence Taylor of basketball.’
Shepard’s Rise to Prominence
Jessica Shepard, a forward for the Dallas Wings, has been making waves in the WNBA with her impressive performances. A Notre Dame alum, Shepard has been a key contributor to the team’s success, leading the Wings in rebounds and ranking second in scoring behind Bueckers. Her ability to adapt to her new role as a WNBA forward, despite having grown up playing point guard, has been a major factor in her success.
Shepard’s exceptional skills and work ethic have earned her recognition as one of the top players in the league. Auriemma’s comments about her being the ‘most important player in the league’ are a testament to her value to the Wings and the WNBA as a whole.
Auriemma’s praise for Shepard is not only a testament to her exceptional abilities but also a reflection of the high level of competition in the WNBA. The league has consistently produced talented players, and Auriemma’s comments about Shepard are a reminder of the exceptional talent that exists within the league.
Auriemma’s Legacy and the UConn-Notre Dame Rivalry
Geno Auriemma’s legacy as a coach and a commentator is built on his ability to recognize and praise exceptional talent, regardless of their affiliation. His comments about Jessica Shepard are a testament to his commitment to fair play and his respect for the rivalries that make the WNBA so compelling.
The UConn-Notre Dame rivalry is one of the most storied in college basketball, with the two programs having met in the Final Four six times and twice in the National Championship game. Auriemma’s comments about Shepard’s performance in a game against UConn are a reminder of the high level of competition that exists between the two programs and the respect that Auriemma has for his rival.
Auriemma’s legacy extends beyond his coaching career, as he has become a respected voice in the WNBA community. His comments about Shepard and the UConn-Notre Dame rivalry are a reminder of his commitment to the sport and his dedication to recognizing and praising exceptional talent.
Conclusion
Geno Auriemma’s return to the broadcast booth was a significant moment in the WNBA’s 30th season celebration. His praise for Jessica Shepard as the ‘best player’ on the court was a testament to her exceptional abilities and a reminder of the high level of competition that exists in the league. As the WNBA continues to grow and evolve, Auriemma’s legacy as a coach and a commentator will continue to be celebrated and respected.
Auriemma’s comments about Shepard and the UConn-Notre Dame rivalry are a reminder of the importance of recognizing and praising exceptional talent, regardless of their affiliation. His legacy extends beyond his coaching career, as he has become a respected voice in the WNBA community.
