It had been a long time coming for the UConn Huskies and Geno Auriemma after spending decades dominating women's college basketball only to go title-less since 2016. But on Sunday, Auriemma finally had a chance to return to the sport's mountaintop and share the moment with Paige Bueckers .
UConn dominated top-seeded South Carolina en route to the program's first national title since 2016. For Auriemma, it was his 12th championship. But it had to be especially gratifying to win that title with Bueckers — UConn's star who battled injuries for much of her career.
As time was winding down in the 82-59 win, Auriemma shared an emotional hug on the sidelines with Bueckers. It was a moment both of them had been waiting years to experience.
After the win, Auriemma revealed to ESPN what he told Bueckers in that exchange. The message was simple.
"I love you."
This article originally appeared on For The Win: Geno Auriemma revealed what he told Paige Bueckers during their emotional hug at the end of UConn's championship win
