UConn's Auriemma pitches at Capitol for university spending

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HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — A heavy hitter appeared at the Capitol to persuade lawmakers to spare the flagship state university from significant spending cuts.

Women's basketball coach Geno Auriemma joined his team and others at the Capitol Tuesday as part of the annual "Husky Day" celebration.

The Hartford Courant reports (http://cour.at/1NIpa1p ) that Auriemma told lawmakers UConn is not advising legislators to cut other worthy programs. He said, "We're asking you to vote yes for UConn."

UConn officials say Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's proposed budget has $40 million less than the school needs for next year.

UConn President Susan Herbst has said such a gap would "have a devastating impact on every aspect of university operations, faculty teaching and research and student success."

Auriemma said the legislature in the past has supported UConn and improved quality has resulted.

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Information from: Hartford Courant, http://www.courant.com