Dawn Staley releases statement addressing tense exchange with Geno Auriemma

The long-awaited women's Final Four matchup between the UConn Huskies and South Carolina Gamecocks ended in infamy with a tense exchange between UConn head coach Geno Auriemma and South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley.

Staley vowed to address the situation in due time, as she didn't want to drive attention away from what happened on the court.

That's why, now that it's been days since the incident and the tournament is over, the Gamecocks coach has finally broken the silence.

Dawn Staley is turning the page on the Geno Auriemma incident

Staley released a statement through the program's social media accounts, saying that she and Auriemma talked and reaffirming her utmost respect for a fellow legend of the game.

"I spoke with Geno and I want to be clear — I have a great deal of respect for him and what he's meant to this game. One moment doesn't define a career, and it doesn't change the impact he's had on growing women's basketball," read the statement.

Staley didn't go into details and, more importantly, urged the fans to leave that run-in behind. If anything, she's only interested in continuing to grow women's basketball, just like Auriemma has done for so many years.

"So, I'm asking everyone to turn the page. Let's refocus on what matters most — continuing to elevate our game, creating opportunities and pushing it forward," Staley continued. "That's always been my mission and it's not changing."

Staley and the Gamecocks' title run ended with a tough loss to the UCLA Bruins. It was their second consecutive blowout loss in the national championship game.

As such, she may not have much time to dwell on the past or on whatever happened with Auriemma.

Also, this definitely won't be the last time their paths cross in a win-or-go-home situation.