Paige Bueckers, the standout player for UConn’s women’s basketball team, has announced her decision to forego the 2024 WNBA draft and return for her senior season. This revelation came during UConn’s Senior Night festivities, where Bueckers addressed her future plans.
Acknowledging the anticipation surrounding her decision, Bueckers declared, “Unfortunately, this will not be my last Senior Night here at UConn. I’m coming back.”
Having faced the setback of a season-ending ACL injury last year, Bueckers has showcased remarkable resilience, leading the Huskies this season with an average of 20.0 points per game and an impressive 54.1% shooting accuracy across 26 games.
Reflecting on her collegiate journey, Bueckers expressed gratitude, stating, “Obviously, these four years didn’t go how I planned or how I wanted it to go, but wouldn’t trade it for the world. I wouldn’t be able to get through what I went through without everybody here. Thank you to the best fans in the country.”
With two more years of eligibility remaining after this season, Bueckers aims to continue her legacy at UConn. Despite being sidelined for an extended period due to injury, she has reclaimed her status as one of college basketball’s premier talents.
Earlier predictions had placed her as a top-three pick in the WNBA draft, a testament to her exceptional skill and resilience.
While speculations swirled regarding which team would select her, Bueckers emphasized that her decision was not influenced by draft dynamics. Instead, her love for the game, her teammates, and the UConn program ultimately guided her choice.
One influencing factor in Bueckers’ decision may be the opportunity to reunite on the court with Azzi Fudd, her close friend and fellow guard whose season was cut short by an ACL tear in November. Despite injuries limiting their playing time together, the prospect of sharing the court with Fudd likely played a role in Bueckers’ decision.
During the Senior Night ceremony, Bueckers was not alone in being honored. Seniors Aaliyah Edwards, Nika Muhl, and Aubrey Griffin were also recognized, with Griffin being the sole member to confirm her return for another season, according to reports.
This leaves the door open for potential reunions and continued success for the UConn women’s basketball team in the upcoming season.
