University of Connecticut Athletics
Auriemma Shares USA Basketball's 2010 National Coach Of The Year Award
12/20/2010 12:00:00 AM | Women's Basketball
Dec. 20, 2010
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (USA Basketball Release) - In recognition of the USA's impressive, gold-medal performances at the men's and women's 2010 FIBA World Championships, USA Basketball today announced University of Connecticut head coach Geno Auriemma and Duke University's Mike Krzyzewski as co-recipients of the 2010 USA Basketball National Coach of the Year award.
Having also been named the USA Basketball National Coach of the Year in 2008, 2007 and 2006, Krzyzewski becomes the only four-time recipient in the history of the award, while Auriemma is a first-time honoree.
"It's a great honor," Auriemma said. "Looking at who the other coaches were this past year, it means even more. Certainly being mentioned with Coach K is a great honor, and I'm thrilled. I can't be more appreciative of the hard work my staff and players did during the World Championship."
"Any time a coach is recognized for representing his or her country, it is a tremendous honor," Krzyzewski said. "USA Basketball enjoyed a terrific summer, and we were proud to do our part at the World Championship. In all of my years in coaching, there's nothing I've enjoyed more than being a part of the USA Basketball program. So, receiving this award for a fourth time is very special to me."
The USA women stood atop the World Championship podium for the first time since 2002, while the USA men earned their first gold at the Worlds since 1994. Additionally, Auriemma and Krzyzewski each captured a NCAA Championship in 2010.
"USA Basketball and our national team players have been very fortunate to have such respected and renowned coaches," said Jim Tooley, USA Basketball Executive Director/CEO. "There are many challenges to molding a team and playing in a World Championship, and the results from this past summer were remarkable. Thanks to their leadership, dedication and expertise, the USA men and women won with impressive sportsmanship and superior teamwork."
