Geno Auriemma slams NCAA two‑site tournament format
Get the Sports newsletter
Daily sports — scores, transfers, the storylines from the leagues you actually follow. Free.
- Geno Auriemma criticized the NCAA’s two‑site regional format, saying it limits practice time and forces teams to use brand‑new baskets and balls that affect shooting.
- NCAA announced the two‑site format will stay for at least five more seasons, citing record attendance of 18,000 across both regionals despite no sellouts.
- Kara Lawson (Duke) echoed the need for longer shootaround sessions, calling the half‑hour before games insufficient.
- Cori Close (UCLA) said she now sees a need to re‑examine the two‑site system, despite initially supporting it.
- David Benedict (UConn AD) posted on X that NCAA decisions “clearly don’t represent what’s best for the student‑athletes.”
- Azzi Fudd (UConn) said the schedule and limited arena time are “not ideal” but not an excuse for performance.
- Hannah Hidalgo (Notre Dame) noted the new rims were “tight” and contributed to a 1‑for‑17 three‑point shooting night.
Why it matters: Coaches and players lose valuable court time and face unfamiliar equipment, which can depress performance and fan experience; the NCAA gains higher attendance numbers but risks alienating teams and undermining game quality, prompting calls for format revisions and may force the organization to reconsider its scheduling and equipment policies to protect athlete development.
