Paige Bueckers Announces 2025 WNBA Draft Intentions

UConn basketball sensation Paige Bueckers has officially announced her intention to enter the 2025 WNBA Draft after the conclusion of the 2024-25 women’s college basketball season. This decision was confirmed on Friday by ESPN’s Rebecca Lobo amid growing speculation surrounding her potential move to the Unrivaled three-on-three basketball league prior to the 2026 draft.

Impactful Senior Season

As a senior, Bueckers has made a significant impact, recently leading the Huskies to a commanding 91-57 victory over South Dakota State, propelling them into the Sweet 16 of the NCAA tournament. This successful run is another highlight in her storied college career.

College Career Highlights

Bueckers made her mark on the collegiate basketball scene when she joined UConn in 2020, arriving with a reputation as one of the nation’s most exceptional talents. She lived up to the hype, winning National Player of the Year honors with stellar averages of 20.0 points, 5.7 assists, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.3 steals as a freshman.

Challenges Faced

However, her journey hasn’t been without challenges. Injuries plagued her during the 2021-22 season, limiting her to just 17 appearances. A torn ACL sidelined her for the entirety of the 2022-23 season. Thankfully, Bueckers made a triumphant return last season and showcased her elite skill set, averaging 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 3.8 assists, 2.2 steals, and 1.4 blocks.

Current Season Performance

Currently, she is averaging 19.2 points on an impressive 54.2% shooting, alongside 4.8 assists and 4.4 rebounds for the Huskies, who hold a remarkable 33-3 record. While UConn has a No. 2 seed, they are considered serious contenders for the NCAA title, especially with the recent injury to USC’s superstar guard JuJu Watkins.

Path to a National Title

One notable gap in Bueckers’ résumé is the absence of a national title, and she now has a golden opportunity to secure this prestigious achievement before she turns professional. The Dallas Wings currently own the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft.

Looking Ahead

Before embarking on her professional journey, Bueckers is laser-focused on culminating her collegiate career on a high note, with her next hurdle being a Sweet 16 match against third-seeded Oklahoma this Saturday.