Auriemma On Charles' Retirement: 'One Of The Best Basketball Players In The World'

STORRS, CT — University of Connecticut Women's Head Basketball Coach Geno Auriemma was to the point when reacting to Tuesday's retirement announcement by Husky and WNBA legend Tina Charles.

"I’d say since the 2009 season at Connecticut, Tina Charles has been one of the best basketball players in the world. That’s a long, long time to be at the top of your game," Auriemma said. "Winning National Championships, Olympic gold medals, World Cup medals, she's had a huge impact on every team she's ever played on. I’m proud of her because it’s a Hall of Fame career and I look forward to seeing her at her Hall of Fame ceremonies."

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Charles, 37, has retired as the WNBA's all time rebounder (4,262). She is also the all-time league leader in field goals made (3,364). Her 8,396 career points are second in WNBA history behind fellow UConn alum Diana Taurasi.

Charles was the 2012 WNBA MVP, she is an eight-time all-Star, and won three Olympic gold medals.

Charles won two NCAA titles with UConn in 2009 and 2010 on two 39-0 teams.

Said Charles on her social media post:

"Today, I officially announce my retirement from basketball. Fifteen years at the professional level and a lifetime of love for this game. I've experienced the highest highs and the lowest lows, and I'm thankful for all of it. Through it all, I learned how to show up. When doubt got loud and narratives were written about me, I kept showing up. That's the New Yorker in me, where resilience is built, not talked about."

She began and ended her WMBA career in Connecticut. The Connecticut Sun Tuesday released the following statement:

"From the moment Tina Charles stepped onto the court as the first overall pick in the 2010 WNBA Draft, she set a standard of excellence that would define not only her career, but our franchise as well. Today, we celebrate Tina—an extraordinary athlete and pillar of the Connecticut community—on an incredible basketball journey that began and fittingly concluded here in Connecticut.

"It has been one of the greatest honors in our organization’s history to have Tina start and end her professional career in a Sun uniform. Her impact on this franchise is immeasurable. From her dominance in the paint to her relentless work ethic, Tina helped shape the identity of the Connecticut Sun and elevated the standard for everyone who wore this jersey alongside her.

"Beyond the accolades, records, and All‑Star appearances, Tina brought heart to this organization. She carried herself with pride, professionalism, and a deep commitment to the game and the community. Her passion for basketball and her respect for its history were evident every time she stepped on the floor.

"Connecticut will always be home for Tina Charles, and she will forever be part of the foundation on which our franchise stands. We thank Tina for everything she has given to the Connecticut Sun and to the game of basketball. Her legacy here is permanent, and her influence will be felt for generations to come.

"Once a Sun, always a Sun."