Who doesn’t remember Nika Muhl in UConn’s epic Final Four confrontation against Caitlin Clark’s Iowa Hawkeyes? The fierce Croatian was at her absolute best and was able to pull off something that many were unsuccessful in the tournament. Contain Caitlin Clark. Perhaps this was the reason why the Seattle Storm thought she would be a worthy inclusion to their roster. However, before embarking on her new journey, there was still a challenging task that stood in her way. And that was to bid farewell to her college basketball career.

Muhl’s teammate and the Huskies stalwart Paige Bueckers took the privilege to share a very heartwarming moment. Captioning Muhl as her twin, the 6 ft guard wished her the best for the future in her story. The official page of UConn women’s basketball captured the very emotional yet touching exchange between Nika Muhl and head coach Geno Auriemma as well.

The 23-year-old paid a visit to the veteran to extend her goodbye. Complementing her talent, Auriemma said to Muhl. “They drafted you for a reason. So do what they drafted you for. Bring a different culture to them, that pros don’t have. Bring that UConn culture to them.“

After agreeing to her coach’s instructions, the 2x Big East Defensive Player of the Year expressed her parting thoughts with a heavy heart. She added, “Just Thank You. You changed my life. And your impact. I didn’t think you’re aware of it. You impacted so many people around me and including me. There’s never been a single person like you and there never will be in the world.”

Such has been the impact of the 8× Naismith Coach of the Year. Consequently, the Basketball Writers Association fittingly honors him for his contributions. 

USBWA names their annual award after Geno Auriemma 

The 70-year-old can be credited for producing future stars like Paige Bueckers and Nika Muhl. As a result, he has been a proud recipient of the USBWA Women’s National Coach of the Year 6 times. Now, the association has reached a landmark decision of dedicating its National Coach of the Year award in the name of Geno Auriemma. In an official statement, the association’s vice president Mel Greenberg said, “It is fitting and proper that [Auriemma’s] name be associated annually with the USBWA Division One Women’s Coach of the Year.” 

Undoubtedly, Auriemma has been a tremendous ambassador of the sport. He has been the driving force behind so many young players like Muhl realizing their dreams in basketball. The impact of which is visible with these stars makes it big on the professional level. 

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