The sports media industry has long been male-dominated, but as women’s basketball grows in popularity—especially in the WNBA and at the collegiate level—the representation of female media members covering the sport is also increasing. UConn head coach Geno Auriemma drew attention to this trend during his postgame press conference following his team’s dominant 85-51 victory over UCLA, where he discussed various topics, including their upcoming matchup against South Carolina in the National Championship.
At the end of his media availability, Auriemma highlighted the significant presence of female reporters, noting it was the most he’d seen in his 40 years as a head coach. “Before I leave, I do have to say this. And not just because it’s women’s basketball. I’ve been to these Final Fours for 24 years. The most women I have ever seen at a press conference since I started this 40 years ago. I’m just really, really proud of you all.”
“This is the most women I’ve ever seen at a press conference since I started this 40 years ago and I’m just really, really proud of you all.”
Geno Auriemma shows his appreciation for all the female reporters attending his press conference 🙌 pic.twitter.com/cCynzsrUrE
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) April 5, 2025
While Auriemma may not directly relate to the struggles of female media members breaking into a male-dominated field, he understands the label that often accompanies working in women’s sports. Auriemma is widely recognized as the greatest women’s basketball coach in collegiate history, yet sometimes his name gets overlooked in discussions about the best coaches across all college basketball, regardless of gender. He has also mentored legends like Rebecca Lobo and Kara Wolters, who transitioned to sports media after their careers, which informs his passionate advocacy for women’s representation in sports media.
Auriemma’s heartfelt message was well-received, prompting many female media members to express their gratitude on social media. “Awesome,” tweeted Eliana Brown of The Athletic.
Awesome. https://t.co/DlDRx67HhN
— Eliana Brown (@ebbrown15) April 5, 2025
“This brought a tear to my eye,” shared Bailee Marie Tucker of WCHS Fox 11 in Charleston, West Virginia.
This brought a tear to my eye 🥲 https://t.co/mMZtIF5WrU
— bailee marie tucker (@BaileeTucker_TV) April 6, 2025
“This was absolutely fantastic. How can you not love and respect Geno Auriemma? Thank you for shouting out the women in sports journalism!” wrote Ira Gorawara, an editor for the Daily Bruin covering the UCLA Bruins.
This was absolutely fantastic. How can you not love and respect Geno Auriemma. Thank you for shouting out the women in sports journalism! 🫶🏽 https://t.co/XCJS9Vbi5v
— Ira Gorawara (@IraGorawara) April 5, 2025
