The WNBA’s newest No. 1 overall pick, Paige Bueckers, isn’t just here to play — she’s here to win. And if her track record tells us anything, it’s that she knows exactly how to do it.

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After being selected by the Dallas Wings with the top pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, Bueckers spoke candidly about her approach to the game, her comeback journey, and what fans — and teammates — can expect from her at the next level.

“I’ve always believed that mindset is everything,” Bueckers said.
“Talent will get you noticed. But it’s your mentality that gets you championships.”

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The Mind of a Competitor

From her early days hooping in Hopkins, Minnesota, Paige Bueckers has been known as a natural-born leader. Coaches talk about her court vision. Teammates rave about her unselfishness. And opponents? They respect her fire.

But behind the highlight reels and flashy passes is a mindset shaped by adversity, resilience, and a relentless pursuit of greatness.

“Losing that year to an ACL tear made me hungry in a different way,” she reflected.
“It reminded me not to take anything for granted — not the practices, not the pain, not the pressure. I came back with a deeper love for the game.”

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In her return season at UConn, Bueckers averaged over 21 points per game, led the Huskies to a Final Four, and re-established herself as one of the best — if not the best — players in college basketball. Her performances in clutch moments proved what fans had long believed: Paige Bueckers is built for the big stage.

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 What She Brings to the W

So what exactly does Paige Bueckers bring to the WNBA? Let’s break it down:

Elite Playmaking – Her court vision is next-level. She sees plays two steps ahead and makes everyone around her better.

Scoring Versatility – Floaters, pull-ups, threes, tough finishes — she’s a three-level scorer with elite efficiency.

Leadership – Paige leads vocally and by example. She doesn’t just play hard — she demands it from her teammates.

Basketball IQ – Her understanding of pace, space, and timing is mature beyond her years.

Clutch Factor – She lives for big moments. Don’t be surprised when she takes — and makes — the biggest shots of the season.

 

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“I know I’m a rookie,” she said.
“But I’m not coming in with a rookie mindset. I want to lead. I want to win.”

 More Than a Player — A Culture Shifter

Paige isn’t just stepping into the WNBA as a basketball player — she’s entering as a brand, a voice, and a visionary.

Already signed with Nike and fresh off a 3-year commitment to the new Unrivaled women’s league, Bueckers is part of a generation of athletes who understand their power on and off the court. She’s outspoken about mental health, equality in sports, and representation. She knows the WNBA is growing — and she’s ready to push it even further.

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“I want to impact this league in every way possible — through how I play, how I lead, and how I represent the next generation of hoopers,” she said.

 The Mission Moving Forward

Bueckers isn’t focused on hype. She’s focused on legacy.

“My goal isn’t to be the most popular. It’s to be the most impactful,” she said.
“I want people to look back and say, ‘She changed the game.’ That’s the bar I’ve set for myself.”

 

And with training camp approaching, Paige Bueckers is already locked in. No distractions. Just drive.

“The league is full of killers,” she smiled.


“And I can’t wait to compete with the best of the best — because I believe I belong here.”

One thing’s for sure — Paige Bueckers is not coming to the WNBA quietly. She’s bringing her heart, her hustle, her vision, and her voice. And the league may never be the same.