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UConn standout Paige Bueckers has officially declared for the 2025 WNBA Draft, marking a significant step as she prepares to transition from college basketball to the professional arena.
At just 23 years old, Bueckers had previously been speculated to forgo the upcoming draft, considering instead to play in independent leagues and declare for the 2026 draft. However, she has dispelled those rumors and confirmed her intentions to enter the draft after her performance in the Huskies’ tournament run.
Many anticipate Bueckers will be among the top picks, potentially even the No. 1 selection, with the Dallas Wings currently holding that position. Her exceptional skill set and consistent performance have made her a highly sought-after prospect.
Shining Star: Bueckers’ Impact at UConn
Bueckers’ collegiate career has been nothing short of remarkable. In her freshman year, she dominated the court and earned the prestigious Naismith Award, recognizing her as the best women’s college basketball player. During that season, Bueckers averaged an impressive 20 points, 4.9 rebounds, 5.7 assists, and 2.3 steals per game. Notably, she led the nation with a remarkable 46.4% three-point shooting percentage, establishing herself as a formidable offensive threat.
Her talent significantly contributed to leading the Huskies to the Final Four in her debut season, showcasing her ability to perform under pressure.
Facing Adversity: Injuries and Comebacks
Despite her impressive start, Bueckers faced challenges in her sophomore year. A tibial plateau fracture and lateral meniscus tear limited her to just 17 games. Nevertheless, she made a comeback just in time for the national championship game, where the Huskies fell short against the South Carolina Gamecocks.
The following summer, Bueckers sustained another setback with an ACL tear during a workout, sidelining her for the entire 2022-2023 season. Critics wondered if she could regain her pre-injury form.
A Stellar Return to the Court
Emerging from her injury, Bueckers returned to the game last season with impressive vigor. She averaged 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 2.2 steals, and 1.4 blocks per game. Her leadership helped UConn regain its spot in the Final Four, though they faced another defeat against Iowa’s Caitlin Clark and her team.
Continuing the Legacy: Aiming for Glory
As she nears the end of her college career, Bueckers hopes to win her first National Championship with UConn before making the leap to the professional stage. This season, she has posted impressive averages of 19.2 points, 4.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists, and 2.1 steals per game, showing her continued growth and commitment to excellence.
With her team currently positioned as the No. 2 seed in the tournament, the Huskies have made a strong statement with notable victories. They dominated Arkansas State 104-34 and triumphed over South Dakota State with a score of 91-57, propelling them to the Sweet 16. Looking ahead, UConn is set to face the No. 3-seeded Oklahoma Sooners, and fans are eager to see how far this talented squad can go.
Looking Toward the Future
As the draft approaches, basketball enthusiasts and analysts alike will closely monitor Bueckers’ performance and her journey as she prepares for the next chapter of her career in the WNBA. Her journey from college superstar to professional athlete serves as an inspiration to many aspiring players, and her impact on the sport is undeniable.
The future looks bright for Paige Bueckers as she continues to hone her skills and lead her team with poise and determination. Fans of women’s basketball will surely keep a close watch on her career as she takes the next step in her basketball journey.
