Staley, Auriemma Clash: McGraw Blasts ‘Hypocritical’ Coach

McGraw Slams Auriemma After Heated Post-Game Exchange

The usually intense rivalry between UConn and South Carolina took an ugly turn last night, overshadowing the Gamecocks’ dominant 80-73 victory. Following the game, UConn coach Geno Auriemma and South Carolina coach Dawn Staley were involved in a heated exchange that required intervention. Hall of Famer Muffet McGraw, a two-time national champion coach herself, didn’t hold back in her criticism of Auriemma’s post-game comments.

The incident stemmed from a supposed pre-game protocol where coaches meet at half court for a handshake. Auriemma claimed he waited for Staley, but she had already greeted his bench. McGraw, however, pointed out a hypocrisy in Auriemma’s complaint. “He broke the same protocol at the end of the game,” McGraw stated. “You congratulate the other team. You shake hands with their players. You shake hands with their coaches.” McGraw called Auriemma’s criticism “quite a bit hypocritical and just really unsportsmanlike.” She added, “It was an ugly incident. We don’t need that kind of thing in our game when we’re on the national stage.”

Players Show Sportsmanship Amidst Coaching Chaos

Despite the fiery exchange between the coaches, the players on both sides showed class. The UConn players notably went through the traditional handshake line, congratulating their opponents on the win. “Give credit to the Yukon players for having the sportsmanlike attitude to go through the line to shake hands with their opponents and to congratulate them on the win,” McGraw acknowledged.

Officiating Dispute Fuels Frustration

Auriemma’s frustration also seemed to be directed at the game’s officiating. South Carolina attempted 22 free throws compared to UConn’s six. McGraw suggested that much of this disparity came in the final two minutes as UConn intentionally fouled while trailing. She also noted that teams that shoot more free throws are often the more aggressive ones attacking the basket. “It was a very physical game both ways,” McGraw observed, suggesting both teams handled it well overall.

The Pressure Cooker of Championship Games

McGraw, who has coached in numerous high-stakes games, understands the immense pressure involved. She believes Auriemma’s frustration with his team’s offensive struggles and unmet expectations spilled over onto the officials. “You have to be able to control yourself because your team is looking at you,” McGraw explained. “If you’re calm in the huddle, they’re going to be calm on the court.” She praised Dawn Staley for her composure, stating the South Carolina coach “did a great job of” managing her emotions and serving as a role model.

South Carolina’s Defensive Masterclass

A key factor in South Carolina’s victory was their suffocating defense, particularly on UConn star Sarah Strong. McGraw had predicted that Joyce Edwards would need to step up defensively, and Edwards delivered. Strong was held to just 4-of-16 shooting from the field. “I don’t think Yukon has ever seen a defense like this or even a team like this,” McGraw commented. “Their schedule in the Big East didn’t have any close games.” She highlighted Edwards’ terrific job, noting she had plenty of help from teammates switching onto Strong. Edwards “just did a great job overall” in shutting down Strong’s drives and limiting her three-point attempts.

Championship Matchup: Edwards vs. Betts

Now, South Carolina, led by players like Edwards, faces another significant challenge in UCLA’s Lauren Betts in the championship game. Betts, a dominant 6’7″ center, was outstanding on both ends of the floor, including a crucial block at the end of her team’s game. McGraw acknowledged Texas’s strong defense but noted they couldn’t stop Betts. While South Carolina has some size with freshman Tornabes, her lack of experience might limit her effectiveness against Betts. McGraw is curious to see how South Carolina will handle off-ball screens against Betts, though she’s unsure if Betts can effectively defend the three-point line.

The championship game features a compelling matchup, with South Carolina entering as a 3.5-point favorite. McGraw’s insights provide a deeper understanding of the intense emotions and strategic battles unfolding on the national stage.

Source: Notre Dame legend Muffet McGraw breaks down the situation between Staley & Auriemma | SportsCenter (YouTube)