UConn guard Paige Bueckers just made NCAA history, becoming the only player to put up four 25-point games in the Elite Eight. Bueckers has led the Huskies to the Final Four each season she’s been healthy, and will face the No. 1 overall seed UCLA in Tampa Bay, Florida, on Friday. As the 2025 WNBA Draft approaches, Bueckers’ skills, work ethic, and leadership will likely make her one of the most sought-after players… But what if Bueckers isn’t selected as the No.1 pick?

College Journey And Road To The WNBA

Bueckers is a generational talent. She has been nothing short of spectacular during her five year collegiate career with the Huskies.

UConn Husckies guard Paige Bueckers (5)
UConn Husckies guard Paige Bueckers (5)

The three-time Big East Player of the Year has had a remarkable collegiate career filled with many accolades, highlights, trophies, and awards. During the 2024-25 season, Bueckers put up an average 20.1 points, 4.8 assists, and 4.4 rebounds.

In UConn’s Sweet 16 win over Oklahoma, Bueckers finished with a career high and UConn tournament record, 40 points.

If The Dallas Wings Pass On Bueckers

Ahead of the 2025 WNBA Draft on April 14 in New York City, Bueckers is expected by many to go first overall to the Dallas Wings. There, she would join a rebuilding franchise and a talented roster including guard Arike Ogunbowale, forward Satou Sabally, and forward NaLyssa Smith.

If she doesn’t go No.1 to the Wings, where would Bueckers land? 

Possible Landing Spots

  • Seattle Storm – Pick 2 

The Seattle Storm (8-32) could be the perfect landing spot for Bueckers. She would fit seamlessly alongside the tough Skylar Diggins-Smith. She would also be reunited with former UConn guard Nika Mühl. Her exceptional playmaking and leadership would be invaluable in helping guide the Storm’s next chapter, especially following the trade of Jewell Lloyd.

If drafted to Seattle, Bueckers would learn from legendary veterans and transcend her talent to the next level.

  • Washington Mystics – Picks 3 and 4

If Bueckers falls to the Washington Mystics (14-26), they have the opportunity to add an incredible talent to a rebuilding franchise. Playing alongside stars like Shakira Austin and Aaliyah Edwards, she would provide elite scoring and playmaking, helping elevate Washington’s championship hopes.

Beuckers’ ability, experience, and leadership would make her an immediate contributor. Washington could quickly become a contender with her on their roster. 

  • Golden State Valkyries – Pick 5

The Golden State Valkyries are the newest expansion franchise to join the league, with the Toronto Tempo and a Portland team to join play soon. As a young, expanding team, the Valkyries would benefit from Bueckers’ leadership, experience, all-around skills. She could become the face of the franchise, helping to drive excitement in the Bay Area.

The Valkyries already have talented guards like Tiffany Hays, Kate Martin, and Julie Vanloo and need more bigs to complete the roster. 

Bueckers’ Strengths

  • High Basketball IQ – Her ability to read the game, make quick decisions, and find open teammates sets her apart as one of the smartest players on the floor.
  • Dynamic Playmaking – Bueckers has an exceptional ability to selflessly distribute the ball and set up teammates, making her one of the best point guards in the draft.
  • Offensive Versatility – Whether it’s pulling up from deep, driving to the basket, or just off the dribble, Bueckers can always make a basket go in. 
  • Defensive Ability – Bueckers’ strong basketball instincts and ability to read the court make her a solid defender, able to disrupt fast offenses.
  • Soft Skills – Bueckers is an upstanding teammate and leader, known for both encouraging and pushing those around her. 
UConn Huskies and Paige Bueckers pose with NCAA trophy and confetti, celebrating heading back to the Final Four in Spokane, Wash. on Tuesday, April 1.
UConn Huskies and Paige Bueckers pose with NCAA trophy and confetti, celebrating heading back to the Final Four in Spokane, Wash. on Tuesday, April 1.

End Of My Paige Bueckers Rant

Bueckers and the UConn Huskies will play the UCLA Bruins in the NCAA Tournament Final Four on Friday, April 4. As the 2025 WNBA Draft approaches, Bueckers’ pure talent and leadership will make her one of the most sought-after players, most likely going first overall… But what if Bueckers isn’t selected as the first overall pick?