Paige Bueckers, the undeniable heartbeat of the UConn Huskies women’s basketball program, is standing at the crossroads of a dream and a farewell. On April 5, 2025, during a heartfelt press conference in Tampa, she let down her guard and shared a deeply personal truth that resonated with fans and teammates alike.
Paige Bueckers Shares Emotions on Storied Career
With the Final Four banner behind her, as shown by UConn on SNY, Bueckers said, “I’m probably gonna be sad regardless of the outcome, just knowing that my college career is over and this is my last time wearing the UConn uniform.”
Bueckers’ words offered a window into the emotional weight she’s carrying as she gets ready to face South Carolina in the 2025 NCAA Women’s National Championship on April 6 — a rematch of the 2022 title game, which South Carolina won.
For Bueckers, this game isn’t just a shot at redemption — it’s the emotional finale of a five-year journey filled with both high points and setbacks. She’s led UConn to its 13th appearance in a national championship game, most recently dominating UCLA with a historic 85-51 victory — the largest Final Four win margin ever against a No. 1 seed.
But as she prepares to transition to the WNBA, where she’s widely expected to be the No. 1 pick, Bueckers is beginning to feel the weight of what she’s about to leave behind — the legendary program that shaped her, the jersey she wore like armor, and the teammates who became her family.
Bueckers’ heartfelt message to fans gave a glimpse into the emotions of the moment.
“The emotions haven’t hit me in a wave yet,” she said in her postgame interview. “I almost got emotional before the game today just listening to gospel and being in a state of gratitude for everything that’s come my way, come our way as a team.”
Throughout her time at UConn, Bueckers has been a beacon of resilience and excellence. She was the first freshman in women’s basketball history to win the AP National Player of the Year in 2021 and surpassed 2,000 career points faster than any other UConn player.
“This will always be home,” she said to the Gampel crowd, her voice breaking with emotion.
Bueckers Looking Ahead to the WNBA
With her college chapter closed, Bueckers is now preparing for the next step: the 2025 WNBA Draft. After months of speculation, she officially confirmed her intention to turn pro. Speaking with ESPN’s Rebecca Lobo, she smiled and said, “Honestly, I thought I declared a long time ago,” putting any lingering questions to rest.
Currently projected to be the No. 1 overall pick, Bueckers is expected to be selected by the Dallas Wings. Addressing rumors about her draft preference, she clarified, “Nowhere specific. Wherever I end up.”
With her leadership, scoring, and playmaking, Bueckers is expected to make an immediate impact in the league — no matter where she lands.