Paige Bueckers Is A Star In The Making

Paige Bueckers is a topic of discussion heading into the start of the WNBA season. Recently, she was drafted as the No. 1 pick by the Dallas Wings. This took very few people by surprise, as she was projected to be the top pick. She has also been in the spotlight for some time alongside Juju Watkins, who is one of the most complete female basketball players in the world. There are similarities between Caitlin Clark last year and Bueckers this year as both players have high expectations heading into their first season. Let’s explore why Bueckers will have a great career in the WNBA.

Paige Bueckers is a Star in the Making

Paige Bueckers Possesses Great Qualities

Bueckers has the quality to succeed in the WNBA. The 23-year-old can read ball screens well and has a solid midrange game, which has contributed to her scoring many points. Her ability to create space enables her teammates to thrive. In her last year of college basketball, she averaged 19.8 Points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. This is a testament to how well-rounded she is as a player. The guard also helped UConn defeat South Carolina 82-59 in the NCAA national championship final. This is a remarkable feat when you consider they won the tournament undefeated last year. If she can build on this in the WNBA, then there is no reason why she can’t win Rookie of the Year in her first season. Ultimately, Bueckers’ elite combination of shot creation and playmaking makes her poised for stardom. 

Bueckers is a Great Leader

The 23-year-old can help her teammates through trials and tribulations. One game that comes to mind is when UConn played the USC Trojans in the NCAA tournament Elite Eight. Her team’s deficit was cut from 19 to five in the 3rd quarter of the game. According to UConnWBBWeekly, she rallied her troops by saying “We’re up. They’re the ones who have all the pressure on them.” Bueckers also led the team in the NCAA Championship final. She helped UConn over the line against South Carolina in a game that had higher stakes. Despite not having the best shooting night, she still had 17 points. Bueckers’ style of leadership and stellar on-court play are ideal traits of a star point guard.

The 23-year-old is Willing to Improve

Bueckers has a positive attitude and is always willing to improve. In an interview via UConn on Sky, she said, “There’s always room for improvement in any and all aspects of my game.” On what she can improve, the 23-year-old added she could look to get more ”open shots.” This mentality is exceptional as it ensures that she will not get complacent.  It will also ensure that she will improve as a player. Staying grounded in your rookie season is invaluable, as there is a gargantuan difference between college basketball and the WNBA. This is ideal as the veterans tend to be tremendously competitive when they play against rookies drafted first overall. Undoubtedly, Bueckers’ mindset, leadership, and impressive skill set her up to be an elite star.