In a move that has shaken up the WNBA landscape in the best way possible, Paige Bueckers was officially selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings. The announcement, made in front of a packed crowd and millions watching live, marks the beginning of what many are already calling a new era in professional women’s basketball.

UConn's Paige Bueckers denies watching Dallas Wings get 1st pick; gives sly  reply to dealing with WNBA conversations

 From UConn Royalty to WNBA Star

Bueckers’ journey to the top pick has been nothing short of extraordinary. Hailing from Hopkins, Minnesota, Paige took the high school basketball world by storm, earning national attention with her jaw-dropping ball-handling, passing wizardry, and clutch scoring. She was named Gatorade National Player of the Year in 2020 before committing to play at the University of Connecticut under the legendary Geno Auriemma.

What time is FDU vs UConn Huskies and where to watch Paige Bueckers' game  today | Marca

At UConn, Paige wasted no time making an impact. As a freshman, she averaged 20 points, 5.8 assists, and 4.9 rebounds per game, earning unanimous National Player of the Year honors — the first freshman in history to do so. Despite a torn ACL that sidelined her for the entire 2022–2023 season, she came back stronger than ever. In her final season with the Huskies, she led the team to a Final Four appearance, averaged over 21 points per game, and once again showed the poise and leadership that makes her so special.

 “Paige Bueckers is the real deal. She’s the most complete player I’ve ever coached,”
Geno Auriemma, UConn Head Coach

Paige Bueckers celebrates NCAA championship, looks ahead to WNBA draft

Dallas Wings Make Their Statement

The Dallas Wings, a team loaded with young talent but still searching for consistency and leadership, made the bold and decisive move to take Bueckers with the No. 1 pick. The decision not only strengthens their backcourt, but gives the franchise a marketable star who can anchor the team for years to come.

 “With Paige, you get more than just talent — you get a winner, a leader, and someone who knows how to elevate everyone around her,”
Latricia Trammell, Head Coach of the Dallas Wings

Paige Bueckers obviously wants UConn career to last long as possible

Bueckers is expected to immediately take over point guard duties and will likely be the face of the franchise from day one. Her combination of scoring ability, elite court vision, basketball IQ, and calm under pressure makes her a perfect fit for the Wings’ high-tempo, dynamic style of play.

 Bigger Than Basketball

Bueckers has already proven she’s more than just an athlete. With a huge social media following, a long list of NIL deals during her college career, and a reputation for being humble, thoughtful, and outspoken, she’s a cultural icon in the making.

UConn women's basketball team trailed Oklahoma at halftime

She’s already partnered with major brands like Gatorade, StockX, and Nike, and those relationships are expected to grow now that she’s in the pros. More importantly, she’s using her platform to advocate for equality, mental health awareness, and women’s sports visibility.

 “I don’t just want to play the game — I want to change the game,”
Paige Bueckers

Paige Bueckers talks 40-point performance in UConn's March Madness win

 What’s Next?

Expectations are sky-high for Bueckers as she heads into her rookie season. The WNBA has seen a major surge in popularity over the past few years, and adding a player of Paige’s caliber only accelerates that momentum.

She joins a Dallas squad featuring young stars like Arike Ogunbowale and Satou Sabally, forming what could become one of the most exciting teams in the league.

 

The countdown has officially begun: Paige Bueckers is coming to the WNBA, and she’s ready to take over.