Geno Auriemma reflects on the memorable rivalry between UConn and Tennessee that dominated women's college basketball from 1995 to 2010. The fierce competition established a thrilling atmosphere in Thompson-Boling Arena, yet he acknowledges that the significance of this rivalry has diminished over time. Today's players, much younger and unfamiliar with the historic context, see games against UConn-ND as more substantial. Auriemma admits the negative fan tensions around the rivalry took away from the essence of basketball, leading him to desire a different perspective on future matchups.
"It became something that wasn't normal... It just became stupid and became something I didn't want to be a part of anymore."
"Players on both sides are too young to remember what it once was... UConn-Notre Dame resonates more as a rivalry to her and her teammates."
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