Asjha Jones Says There Was Big UConn Feel In London

Asjha Jones said the Olympic experience was in a sense like being back at UConn because of the large traveling party from the school accompanying Geno Auriemma and all of his former players.

“It was kind of like a blast from the past for someone who has been out of college for as long as I have [2002],” said Jones. “That was different. I didn’t really expect that. I got to hang out again with Diana [Taurasi], Swin [Cash] and Sue [Bird] again.”

Since both the men’s and women’s basketball teams stayed at a hotel about an hour from the Olympic village, the players did not get a chance to see a lot of other events.

Jones said she took in some beach volleyball and women’s water polo. Tina Charles met Jamaican gold medal sprinter, Usian Bolt, which thrilled her because she is of Jamaican descent.

“The men’s players were all very laid back, very grounded,” said Jones. “We met some of their families. LeBron [James’] mother was the best. She was so sweet, very awesome. “

Charles said Auriemma, with whom she won two undefeated national championships, was different to play for.

“More patient,” Charles said. “We looked to the veteran players for their opinions on strategies. It was good to see the respect she showed them because this was his first time [as an Olympic head coach], too.”