Paige Bueckers’ Decision to Stay at UConn for Senior Season
In a surprising turn of events, Paige Bueckers has decided to forego the 2024 WNBA draft and return to UConn for her senior season. This announcement came during UConn’s Senior Night celebration, where Bueckers made it clear that she values her time at UConn and wants to continue playing for the Huskies.
Bueckers, who missed last season due to an ACL tear, is currently leading the Huskies with an impressive 20.0 points per game while shooting 54.1 percent from the field in 26 games this season. Despite facing setbacks due to injuries, Bueckers expressed gratitude for the support she has received from the UConn community and fans.
After becoming the first woman to win the Naismith Trophy in 2021, Bueckers faced a challenging road to recovery following her ACL injury in 2022. However, she has returned this season as one of the most dominant players in college basketball, receiving high praise from analysts and scouts alike. Despite being projected as a top-three pick in the WNBA draft, Bueckers emphasized that her decision to stay at UConn was driven by her love for the game and her teammates.
One compelling factor in Bueckers’ choice to remain at UConn may be the opportunity to play alongside junior guard Azzi Fudd, who also suffered a season-ending ACL tear earlier this season. The chance to share the court with Fudd, a close friend and former teammate, is likely a motivating factor for Bueckers as she looks ahead to her senior season.
While Bueckers has decided to stay, other UConn seniors like Aaliyah Edwards, Nika Muhl, and Aubrey Griffin also have the option to return for another season. Griffin, who is currently recovering from an injury, has already announced her intention to continue playing for UConn. This news adds to the excitement surrounding the Huskies’ roster for the upcoming season.
In conclusion, Bueckers’ decision to stay at UConn showcases her commitment to the program and her teammates. As she looks forward to her senior season, fans can expect to see Bueckers continue to shine on the court and lead the Huskies to further success.