Geno Auriemma's UConn Huskies once drew dozens. Now 2,000 show up for practice: Mike Anthony
Kathy Auriemma was one of several dozens of fans attending UConn women's basketball games in the 1980s.
At UConn's open practice on Sunday, more than 2,000 fans filled the Pitt Center gym to watch the Huskies mix work with play. This is a far cry from the early 1980s when attendance for the team's games was measured in the dozens. Coach Geno Auriemma, in his 42nd season, noted that back then his voice would echo through an empty gym.
His wife, Kathy Auriemma, reminisced about the early years, saying that Auriemma's decision to come to UConn was influenced by the facilities, but more importantly, the people. The Huskies have seen tremendous growth since then, winning 12 national titles and 25 Final Fours. Their popularity has grown, with games now drawing crowds of 10,000, 15,000 and even 20,000-plus in the NCAA Tournament and millions more on TV.
Despite the increased attention and pressure that comes with success, Auriemma still enjoys the turnout and the unique opportunity to show off the team to fans.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
