NEW YORK — In a suite at the legendary Madison Square Garden sits an equally renowned women’s basketball star: Paige Bueckers.
It feels both like just yesterday and a lifetime ago that the UConn point guard delivered one of the most remarkable freshman seasons in NCAA basketball history.
After dealing with a rare knee injury that sidelined her for a significant period, she returned to the court and showcased some of her best performances again.
Though she was hailed as the most exceptional women’s basketball player ever by South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley, Bueckers surprised her legendary coach Geno Auriemma by choosing not to enter the 2024 WNBA Draft.
Now, in what is likely her last year in college, she’s focused on winning her first national championship before turning professional.
On Monday night, however, Bueckers took some time off to unwind. Clad in a grey Eric Emanuel sweatsuit embellished with Swarovski crystals, she decided to enjoy an NBA game in New York City with her teammates.
Despite a minor injury sustained the night before during a matchup against Villanova, the UConn star chatted with For The Win at the Verizon Club in Madison Square Garden while the Knicks faced the Magic on Monday.
How has Minnesota produced so many great basketball players recently like you, Chet Holmgren, and Jalen Suggs?
Bueckers: Given the harsh cold, those who play basketball tend to spend a lot of time indoors honing their skills and improving. Playing is a great way to escape the freezing weather. The phrase “Minnesota Nice” comes to mind; people from Minnesota have a certain grit because they’re not often recognized for being strong basketball players. We all share a sense of resilience.
Representing Minnesota means everything to me. Although it’s primarily known as a hockey state, we also have a rich basketball scene. I’m close with Jalen, Chet, and many other basketball players who have excelled in recent years. It’s exciting to witness the growth and recognition that Minnesota is starting to receive for its contributions to basketball.
What are the top storylines everyone should know in women’s basketball right now?
Bueckers: The growth is remarkable. There’s so much talent across college basketball, the WNBA, and even at the high school level. With increased exposure, we’re seeing rising viewership, greater attention, and better access to watch the games. Positive outcomes are evident every time. We really need to recognize how exciting women’s basketball is to watch. When we get the opportunity to showcase our skills, we excel. While there are well-known players, viewers often end up becoming fans of many others because our sport is so beautiful and truly embodies teamwork.
Who are some other players to follow?
Bueckers: JuJu Watkins from USC was an excellent competitor against me, and she absolutely gets the recognition she deserves. Olivia Miles is another standout player, and she teams up with the talented Hannah Hidalgo, making them a formidable duo. My teammate Sarah Strong is incredibly skilled; even as a freshman, she’s already demonstrated her talent impressively. In February, we have away games against Tennessee and South Carolina, which will be exciting matchups. Both teams are strong, and there’s always a rivalry between Tennessee and UConn.
What is something you have picked up from Geno Auriemma if you were to ever coach?
Bueckers: I admire his ability to challenge his players effectively. He knows how to push them while also providing support, and he understands when to use each approach. This is rooted in his ability to build strong relationships with his players, which is key to what makes him an exceptional coach.
He is our toughest competitor in practice, ensuring we’re ready for the biggest games. Whether the opposing team is making every 3-pointer or the atmosphere is intense, he prepares us for those challenges every day.
Do you feel you have been more aggressive after returning to UConn for one more season?
You have the first player edition shoe for an NCAA player. Do you think we will ever see a collegiate signature shoe and what would yours look like?
Bueckers: Having a player edition shoe is really exciting. I feel very blessed and thankful for such an amazing opportunity, and I’m incredibly grateful to Nike for recognizing that in me.
That’s an interesting question about the signature shoe. I think it might be in the works for the future. With players beginning to sign at the high school level now, it could happen sooner than we think. I personally prefer low-top shoes, especially Kobe’s, and I’m a fan of Sabrina’s as well. However, I would want my shoe to stand out since many designs are starting to look quite similar. I believe it’s important to make mine unique.
How big of a role did NIL opportunities play in your decision to return to college?
Bueckers: I don’t believe NIL was a major factor in my decision to return. However, it has done amazing things for me and for players across the country, allowing us to develop our brands, establish connections with various companies and individuals, and support the growth of ourselves and our teammates. NIL has brought more college athletes into the spotlight through media and commercials, which is fantastic for the sport’s development. Many of these players truly deserve what they’re receiving because they work hard for it, and it’s wonderful to witness.
How do you choose your NIL deals and what are some things you look for?
Bueckers: I believe it’s really important to give back. I want to create opportunities for my hometown, where I currently play, and where I hope to play in the future. My goal is to help those who are less fortunate. I definitely plan to run camps down the line, and once I finish college, I’ll have more time in the offseason to invite kids and support communities that need it and deserve it. I’ve been very fortunate in my life, so I want to utilize the platform I have to give back.
For instance, I’m at the Knicks game tonight with Verizon, a company that shares many of my values. We’re collaborating for the future, and I’m really excited about it. They’ve been wonderful in hosting us in the lounge and suite tonight and allowing me to give gifts to my teammates. That means a lot. I know I’m not achieving these deals on my own; my opportunities are influenced by my team. Success in basketball isn’t just an individual accomplishment; it’s a team effort. Sharing that with my teammates is truly special.
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