UConn star Paige Bueckers discussed her close friendship with Ice Brady
Paige Bueckers, who is about to start a new season with UConn, has emerged as a key player for the team. By choosing not to enter the WNBA Draft, she has decided to spend at least one more year in college basketball before moving on to the professional league.
Bueckers is expected to be a strong leader for UConn, thanks to her excellent relationship with her teammates. In a popular TikTok video, she talks about her close friendship with UConn’s Ice Brady. Bueckers mentioned that their bond began when both faced challenges—Brady’s injury occurred during Bueckers’ red-shirt season.
“We became very close as we supported each other through our injury struggles around the same time,” Bueckers explained. “We also grew in our faith together, going to Bible studies and church as a pair. I reminded her that God’s timing is always perfect.”
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“She has navigated numerous challenges throughout the season, dealing with the ups and downs and the typical struggles of being a freshman at UConn, something I’ve reminded her of several times. Watching her grow and excel in crucial moments has been truly rewarding. Observing her rise to the occasion with confidence, backed by the team’s faith in her, motivates me to cultivate that confidence and ensure she takes full advantage of her opportunities,” she explained.
Paige Bueckers has been a steadfast friend to Ice Brady. She recently celebrated Brady’s birthday with a couple of Instagram stories, showing her deep affection for her friend.
In her first story, Bueckers wrote, “Happy birthday to my Icey,” and in her second, she added a heartfelt message: “I love you. You already know how it is.”
Brady’s start to her college basketball career was tough. She joined the team out of admiration for head coach Geno Auriemma but had to deal with an injury that required rehab throughout her freshman season.
During media days for the Huskies, Auriemma praised Brady’s exceptional talent but expressed regret over her injury setback.
Paige Bueckers provided guidance and support to Ice Brady while they both were dealing with injuries
Paige Bueckers and Ice Brady both went through redshirt seasons in 2022-23 due to knee injuries. Despite these challenges, they supported each other and came out stronger.
“Despite how difficult it was, having each other’s support during those tough times was incredibly important,” Bueckers told CT Insider.
As a senior, Bueckers took on a mentoring role for Brady during her freshman year when Brady was dealing with her injury. “She really took me under her wing and guided me,” Brady told CT Insider.
With their recovery complete, the 2024-25 season offers both players a chance to showcase their abilities, improve their draft prospects, and excel on the court.