UConn's Auriemma signs 5-year extension

Legendary UConn head coach Geno Auriemma signed a five-year extension, director of athletics David Benedict announced Tuesday.

Auriemma's new deal is worth $18.7 million and will run through April 2029.

"I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to continue to work alongside Geno Auriemma and his staff to add to what is already the gold standard for success," Benedict said in a statement. "Coach Auriemma has dedicated over half of his life to UConn and our women's basketball program and will (undoubtedly) be known as one of the greatest collegiate coaches of all time."

Auriemma has spent the last 39 years at UConn, transforming the program into a women's college basketball powerhouse. The school has won a record 11 national championships - including six undefeated campaigns - and 27 conference tournament crowns.

The Huskies reached their 23rd Final Four under the Hall of Famer last season.

UConn is poised to compete for another Division I title this coming season with No. 1 recruit Sarah Strong joining a talented core that features Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd.

Auriemma is just four victories away from surpassing Tara VanDerveer as the winningest coach in college basketball.

"I still find it hard to believe that I've been at UConn for over half my life," Auriemma said in a statement. "I feel like there's so much more that can be done, and will be done, and I'm excited to be the one to do it with my staff and my team.

"I'm probably as excited about these next few years as I've ever been over the last 40."