Meet Geno Auriemma’s Wife Kathy and Their Kids Amid Postgame Clash With Dawn Staley

Geno Auriemma, the legendary 72-year-old head coach of the UConn Huskies women’s basketball team, recently made headlines following a heated sideline exchange with South Carolina coach Dawn Staley after UConn’s 62-48 Final Four loss on April 3, 2026. During a live TV interview, Geno used strong language to criticize officials for allowing South Carolina to play aggressively, particularly after UConn’s Sarah Strong had her jersey ripped without a foul being called.

The postgame tension escalated as Geno and Dawn engaged in a verbal argument on the court, which required intervention by assistant coaches and officials. Geno then left the court without shaking hands, drawing criticism from fans. Amid this scrutiny, attention has turned to his personal life, including his wife, Kathy Auriemma, and their children.

Who Is Kathy Auriemma?

Kathy Auriemma (née Osler) is the supportive wife of Geno. A former English teacher, she has worked at the University of Connecticut and frequently travels with the Huskies, serving as a trusted figure for players. Former player Stefanie Dolson described her as the “heart” of UConn basketball: “When you think of the brains of UConn basketball, you think of coach Auriemma. But when you think of the heart, you think of Mrs A.”

Their Love Story

Geno and Kathy first met in December 1972 at Montgomery County Junior College in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania. Introduced by a mutual friend, Geno was a student-athlete, and Kathy a cheerleader. After their first meeting, Kathy asked Geno for a ride home, marking the start of their relationship. Despite early financial struggles, Geno proposed without a diamond ring, and the couple married in 1978. Geno later surprised Kathy with a diamond ring on their 15th anniversary, highlighting their enduring bond.

Geno and Kathy’s Family

The couple has three children: Jenna, Alysa, and Michael. Jenna Auriemma Stigliano is an educator and mother, married to former Providence soccer player Todd Stigliano. Alysa Auriemma, a UConn alumna, is an English teacher and basketball coach, married to Michael Piscitelli. Their son, Michael “Mike” Auriemma, played college basketball and works as a financial advisor, married to Caitlyn Gearity. As of 2026, the family also includes grandchildren, completing the Auriemma family story.