When the WNBA Draft tips off Monday night at The Shed in New York City, all eyes will be on one name: Paige Bueckers. The UConn guard, already a college basketball legend, is widely expected to be the No. 1 overall pick by the Dallas Wings.
Her journey from National Player of the Year as a freshman in 2020 to national champion in 2025 has been nothing short of remarkable. After injuries interrupted two seasons, Bueckers returned with a vengeance, showing that her game and marketability are stronger than ever.
Scouting UConn Guard Paige Bueckers
Now one of 16 players invited to attend the live WNBA Draft event, Bueckers enters as the face of the 2024 class. With a $1.5 million NIL valuation, a national title, and elite two-way skills, she stands poised to take over the WNBA just as she once did the college game. But how does her game translate to the pros?
Size: 6’0”
Key Stat: 21.9 PPG, 3.8 APG, 4.3 RPG (2023-24 season)
Projected Role: Franchise Cornerstone
Strengths
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Elite IQ and Court Vision: One of the smartest players in the game. Bueckers makes elite reads off the dribble and keeps defenses guessing.
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Efficient Scoring Ability: A true three-level scorer with a silky midrange game, elite footwork, and off-ball movement.
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Clutch Performer: Hits big shots when it matters most. Excelled in high-pressure moments throughout UConn’s championship run.
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Defensive Instincts: Anticipates passing lanes well and plays tough on-ball defense despite not being the most physically dominant guard.
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Leadership and Maturity: Poised and polished. Vocal on and off the court. Respected by teammates and coaches alike.
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Experience in Big Games: NCAA tournament tested, with multiple deep runs and a national title under her belt.
Areas of Concern
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Injury History: Missed significant time in two of her four college seasons due to knee injuries. Long-term durability will be watched closely.
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Athleticism vs. Pro Guards: While skilled, she’s not the most explosive athlete. May face challenges against elite-level WNBA defenders.
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Volume Passing: Despite her high IQ, she averaged under 4 assists per game in 2023-24. She needs to boost her playmaking volume to match the WNBA pace.
Paige Bueckers WNBA Draft Outlook
With Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese ushering in a new era of WNBA stardom, Paige Bueckers is primed to be the next elite crossover star. Her return to dominance at UConn and leadership during their title run showed she can carry a team, both on the court and in the media spotlight.
Dallas, a team already building a young core, is likely to benefit from her winning mentality and national appeal.
TURNING THE PAIGE: WNBA-Bound Paige Bueckers Secures Multi-Year Contract With Unrivaled
Paige Bueckers is not just a top draft prospect; she’s a franchise-changing talent. Her blend of savvy, scoring, and leadership makes her the safest bet in this draft class, assuming she stays healthy.
Draft Projection: No. 1 Overall by Dallas Wings
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