Paige Bueckers

 Paige Bueckers: From Minnesota Prodigy to WNBA’s No. 1 Draft Pick

Early Life and High School Stardom

Paige Madison Bueckers was born on October 20, 2001, in Edina, Minnesota, and raised in nearby St. Louis Park. From a young age, she displayed a natural talent for basketball, beginning to play at the age of five. Her father, Bob Bueckers, a software developer, coached her during her formative years, fostering her development in the sport. Paige attended Hopkins High School in Minnetonka, Minnesota, where she quickly rose to prominence. By eighth grade, she was playing on the varsity team, and over her high school career, she led Hopkins to a remarkable 149–8 record, earning numerous accolades, including the 2020 Gatorade National Player of the Year and Naismith Prep Player of the Year honors. ​

Collegiate Career at UConn

In 2020, Bueckers joined the University of Connecticut (UConn) Huskies, one of the most prestigious programs in women's college basketball. As a freshman, she made an immediate impact, averaging 20.0 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game, and became the first freshman to win major national player of the year awards, including the AP Player of the Year, Naismith College Player of the Year, and John R. Wooden Award.

Her sophomore season was marred by injuries, including a significant knee injury that limited her play. However, she returned strong in her junior and senior years. In her senior season (2024–25), she led UConn to its 12th national championship, averaging 19.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game. She also became the fastest player in UConn history to reach 2,000 career points, achieving this milestone in just 102 games. ​

Transition to Professional Basketball

Following her stellar college career, Bueckers declared for the 2025 WNBA Draft and was selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Dallas Wings. Her selection marked a significant moment for the Wings, who are aiming to revitalize their franchise. Bueckers' arrival brings renewed hope and excitement to Dallas basketball fans, especially in the wake of significant changes in the local sports landscape. ​

Off-Court Endeavors and NIL Success

Beyond the court, Bueckers has been a trailblazer in the realm of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). She has secured endorsement deals with major brands such as Nike, Gatorade, Panini, and Verizon, reportedly earning over $1 million through these partnerships. Notably, she became the first NIL athlete to design and release a Nike Player Edition basketball sneaker, the Nike G.T. Hustle 3, reflecting her influence and marketability. ​

Personal Life and Advocacy

Paige's family has been a cornerstone of her journey. Her parents, Bob Bueckers and Amy Fuller, divorced when she was three, but both remained actively involved in her life. She has three half-siblings: Drew, Ryan, and Lauren. Bueckers has been vocal about social justice issues, particularly supporting the Black Lives Matter movement, inspired by her biracial brother, Drew. ​

Known for her humility, leadership, and empathy, Bueckers continues to inspire both on and off the court. Her transition to the WNBA is not just a new chapter in her basketball career but also an opportunity to further her impact as a role model and advocate.​