During an interview on A Touch More with Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe YouTube channel on July 31, former UConn standout and WNBA veteran Napheesa Collier recently talked about her relationship with rookie sensation Paige Bueckers.
During the interview, Collier referred to Bueckers as the best player on the team back when they played for Team USA.
“It was great to play with, obviously, a lot of people I’ve played with before, and also with Paige. She’s the one I’ve looked forward to. I actually did play with Paige [before], she was in high school for USA [Basketball]. A high schooler, a college player, and two WNBA players and she was the best player on the team.” (51:50)
Although they never played together at UConn, Collier’s comments have drawn notice especially during their time at the WNBA All-star game. During off-court conversations and one-on-one practice footage, the seasoned Lynx forward expressed her belief that Paige Bueckers has exceptional talent during their interview.
“It was awesome playing with her. She is someone I have always wanted to play with. just really admired her game for a long time,” she added.
Meanwhile, Team Collier defeated Team Clark 151-131 in the All-Star game. Bueckers tallied six points and eight assists in the win, while Collier dominated with 36 points.
Rookies Rising: How Paige Bueckers and Others Are Fueling WNBA Growth
A larger league trend is highlighted by the relationship between Napheesa Collier and Paige Bueckers: seasoned players supporting and uplifting the younger generation. Bueckers was selected as the first overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft and has already proven herself. Meanwhile, Collier is a seven-year veteran.
Bueckers was the only rookie starter in the All-Star Game, posting averages of 18.2 PPG, 5.5 APG, and 1.9 SPG. She also seems to be a strong favorite to win Rookie of the Year after winning June’s Rookie of the Month award.
The WNBA’s momentum will depend on veteran-rookie cooperation as demonstrated by Napheesa Colliers’ and Paige Bueckers’ relationship. Such connections are the driving force behind the league’s increase in sponsorships, attendance, and ratings. Similar increases to viewership also occurred when Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese were rookies as well.
The supporting cast surrounding superstar rookies becomes more important as the league develops to maintain the flow of the story.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
