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Caitlin Clark's Strong Point on Geno Auriemma Makes Diana Taurasi, Sue Bird Laugh

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Mariano | Last updated Apr 7, 2025 9:15 PM ET

There's nothing like listening to three legends talk candidly about basketball.

The national title game between the University of Connecticut and South Carolina in the women's NCAA Tournament on Sunday had an extra treat as collegiate icons Diana Taurasi, Sue Bird and Caitlin Clark covered it for ESPN's "The Bird & Taurasi Show.

During the third quarter, the superstar trio discussed the possible retirement of UConn coach Geno Auriemma. Taurasi, who won three championships with the Huskies, said she doesn't see him stepping down yet because he can see building another dynasty behind freshman sensation Sarah Strong.

Bird, who captured two rings with the Huskies, echoed the point of Taurasi.

"What happens to coach Auriemma every time a great player comes through is he wants to stay, all four years," said the former UConn guard.

"He feels that way about Azzi (Fudd). He definitely feels that way about Sarah Strong."

Clark then interjected with another strong point—pun intended.

"But then after Sarah Strong, there's gonna be another good player!" said the Indiana Fever star, who led Iowa over UConn in the Final Four in 2024.

It quickly elicited laughter from Taurasi and Bird. Having starred for Auriemma, they definitely knew that Clark was not wrong.

"Exactly, that's the point," said Bird.

"It never ends," added Taurasi.

How much longer will Geno Auriemma continue to coach? @S10Bird, @DianaTaurasi and @CaitlinClark22 share their thoughts on the matter. pic.twitter.com/bDSsxfWyf4
— espnW (@espnW) April 6, 2025

Auriemma led the Huskies to their 12th national title after they routed the Gamecocks, 82-59. He avenged his lone defeat in his 13 appearances in the finals when UConn lost to South Carolina in 2022.

The 71-year-old tactician has been coaching for 40 years now. He's the all-time winningest coach in college basketball. He has nothing left to prove.

Unless another talented young player comes along.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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