After five unforgettable years in Storrs, Paige Bueckers is officially saying goodbye to UConn—and she made sure the farewell hit right in the feels.
On Tuesday, the 2025 WNBA Draft’s No. 1 overall pick poured her heart out in an emotional Instagram post, reflecting on her time with the Huskies. Alongside a touching photo of her embracing longtime coach Geno Auriemma, Bueckers thanked the program, the fans, and the moments that shaped her into the player—and person—she is today.
“UConn Nation, where do I even begin,” Bueckers wrote. “These past 5 years have been some of the most rewarding, challenging, and blessed years of my life. From the relationships that will last a lifetime, memories and experiences I’ll never forget, and a growing in Faith that has changed my life.”
She continued, “The support and love has meant everything to me and I wouldn’t have been able to make it through without it.”
The post struck a chord with former teammates and fans alike. Seattle Storm rookie and UConn alum Nika Muhl responded with, “🐐 DALLAS LUCKY!” while Aaliyah Edwards of the Washington Mystics added, “💙🤞🏾forever bleed blue Pskii.”
Though her college career is officially in the books, Bueckers’ legacy is undeniable. She wrapped up her final NCAA season averaging 19.8 points, 4.7 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 2.1 steals across 123 games—and, most importantly, capped it off with a national championship.
Paige Bueckers to be unveiled by the Dallas Wings
Now, the next chapter begins in the WNBA.
Paige Bueckers is set to be unveiled as the newest face of the Dallas Wings in a press conference on Wednesday at Dallas City Hall. She’ll be introduced alongside fellow draftees Aziaha James (NC State), Madison Scott (Ole Miss), JJ Quinerly (West Virginia), and Aaronette Vonleh (Baylor).
Wings brass—including CEO and Managing Partner Greg Bibb, GM Curt Miller, and head coach Chris Koclanes—will be on hand to welcome the team’s newest stars as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2024 campaign that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time in four years.
With the regular season opener set for May 16 against the Minnesota Lynx, all eyes will be on Bueckers as she makes the leap from college phenom to WNBA franchise cornerstone.
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Sabel has been working as a field reporter for People’s Television Network (PTV), mainly about the Philippine Basketball Association since 2016 and has been elevated to Executive Producer for sports in 2022. Aside from being on top of the Philippine sports scene, she is also a running enthusiast. You can also follow her on X at @SabelReyes2 and Instagram at @msabelreyes.
