Before playing a single WNBA minute, UConn star Paige Bueckers is already turning heads. Known for her signature braids throughout her NCAA career — including her 2025 national championship run — Bueckers teased a possible change.
“The braids, they had its good run, so I might switch it up now,” she told NBC. The comment sparked instant buzz on social media, with fans debating her next new look.
Before the WNBA Debut, Paige Bueckers Sparks Hair Hype
Paige Bueckers hasn’t stepped onto a WNBA court yet, but her hair has already ignited a frenzy. Her trademark braided ponytail became a staple of her college image, but she recently told NBC’s Nightly Kids Show,
“I think it’s time for a switch up. The braids, they had a good run.”
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That comment followed a February game in which she sported a plain ponytail—a temporary change due to her hairstylist’s absence.
Fan reactions were swift.
“I was literally thinking this the other day!! She should def rock a new look for the W!” one commented.
Another added,
“i’m not ready to say goodbye to the braids 💔.”
A third suggested, “That’s your signature style don’t get rid of it just switch it up every now and then.”
In March 2025, Bueckers expanded her influence by launching a limited-edition hair color with Madison Reed, “UConnic Blonde,” which quickly sold out and benefited youth sports. Her next hairstyle? Still unknown—but fans are watching.
Paige Bueckers Inks Major Deal With Unrivaled Ahead of WNBA Draft
Projected No. 1 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, Paige Bueckers is making headlines again—this time off the court. UConn standout signs a three-year deal with Unrivaled, a 3-on-3 league founded by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, according to ESPN’s Kendra Andrews.
Bueckers previously held an NIL agreement with Unrivaled during her college career, earning equity without participating as a player. Now that she’s turning professional, she will join the league during the WNBA offseason.
Financial details weren’t disclosed, but Andrews reports her Unrivaled earnings in year one will surpass her entire four-year WNBA rookie-scale deal. First-year WNBA lottery picks will earn $78,831, totaling $348,198 over four years—placing Bueckers’ annual Unrivaled salary at a minimum of $350,000.
Also Read: 5 Underrated Players in the 2025 WNBA Draft Class You Need To Know
Unrivaled paid its 36 founding athletes an average of $222,222 in its debut season, exceeding the WNBA’s maximum salary. Commissioner Micky Lawler recently told Front Office Sports the league “almost broke even” and aims to expand revenue through sponsorships, merchandise, and venue growth.
With her championship resume and marketability, Bueckers is expected to draw major attention and bolster Unrivaled’s audience, further solidifying its role as a high-paying, stateside offseason option for WNBA players.
