The Connecticut Ethics Commission fired a shot over Geno's bow yesterday, but took no real action.

The Commission abolished the "celebrity exception" to state ethics laws. It said that Auriemma and men's coach Calhoun can keep their existing contracts, but it suggested that similar contracts would face closer scrutiny in the future. Geno's current deal doesn't expire till 2010.

Not all were pleased with the ruling. "If we limit outside earnings, would we have to significantly increase their state salaries to retain these coaches?" asked Senate leader Martin Looney. "That could have a considerable cost to taxpayers."

Neither Auriemma nor Calhoun would comment yesterday.

For earlier posts on this issue, see here.