Paige Bueckers, the Dallas Wings’ point guard and No. 1 overall pick in the recent WNBA draft, is set to make her professional debut against the Minnesota Lynx just 40 days after leading the Connecticut Huskies to their first national championship in nearly a decade. Emphasizing the significance of this moment, Bueckers expressed to NBC News that it feels like a dream come true, highlighting her desire to build on this achievement and continue improving.
Bueckers, 23, had a tumultuous collegiate career marked by injuries, including a torn ACL that sidelined her for a full season. However, she persevered, guiding the Huskies to the Final Four in 2024 and finishing her time at Connecticut as the school’s third all-time leading scorer. As she prepares to don her Wings jersey, Bueckers promises fans a display of “passion and sense of pride.”
The Dallas Wings have struggled in playoff scenarios since their relocation to Texas in 2016, with only one advancement beyond the first round occurring in 2023. Bueckers’ arrival brings hope to the franchise’s aspirations. Her debut coincides with a notable increase in interest in the WNBA, following its most-watched Finals game in 25 years. Bueckers is aware of her role and the influence she and her contemporaries have on the league’s visibility. She aims to contribute positively, building on the legacy of those before her and fostering opportunities for future generations of players.
In the context of her multifaceted journey and impending debut, Bueckers is positioned to leave a significant mark on the WNBA as she embarks on this new chapter of her basketball career.
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