Sports
Briefing: Staley makes show of pregame hug with Close
Strategic angle: Dawn Staley's pregame handshake with Cori Close draws attention before women's final.
editorial-staff
1 min read
Updated 5 days ago
In a notable pregame moment, Dawn Staley embraced Cori Close ahead of the women's final between South Carolina and UCLA on April 5, 2026.
This gesture has been interpreted as a strategic counterpoint to the longstanding rivalry with Geno Auriemma, highlighting the competitive landscape of women's basketball.
Such interactions not only shape team morale but also influence public perception and media narratives surrounding key figures in the sport.