TAMPA, Fla. — As her collegiate career draws to a close, Paige Bueckers of the UConn Huskies doesn’t focus on her legacy. Instead, she desires to be remembered as a “great teammate, a great leader,” emphasizing her ability to uplift those around her. Ahead of Sunday’s national title game against South Carolina, Bueckers expressed that whatever weight an NCAA championship might add to her achievements is for others to decide.
“I don’t think that’s up to me. That’s for people who decide which legacies are cemented,” Bueckers shared. “I’m more invested in the incredible relationships and memories I’ve built with my teammates, the moments we’ve shared, and the growth we’ve experienced together. The camaraderie and strength we’ve developed are what truly matter.”
UConn players aim to secure a 12th national title for Coach Geno Auriemma, who has led the team to an unprecedented 24 Final Fours. Yet, Auriemma wishes for Bueckers and her teammates simply to relish the joy of potential victory. Regardless of Sunday’s outcome, he recognizes Bueckers’ significant impact on the program.
“Participating for the first time doesn’t offer the full appreciation of what this means. Having been blessed with this experience, I understand the profound effect of a player leaving the court for the last time as a champion,” Auriemma stated. “Though Paige needs nothing to enhance her life, she deserves this moment after giving so much to UConn, her team, and the community.”
South Carolina coach Dawn Staley, pursuing a third team title in four years, concurs that Bueckers’ status as a legendary player is secure irrespective of a championship win. “Paige has showcased her greatness from the outset,” Staley commented. “Her legacy at UConn is assured, championship or not.”
After scoring 16 points in UConn’s decisive 85-51 win over UCLA in Friday’s semifinals, Bueckers reflects on past setbacks, including a 2022 national championship loss to South Carolina and an injury-plagued season. As she anticipates the upcoming WNBA draft, a UConn victory would prevent South Carolina from becoming back-to-back champions for the first time since UConn’s streak from 2013-2016.
“For me, the journey itself has been the reward,” Bueckers expressed before her final game with the Huskies. “Legacy discussions aren’t for me to control. I can only impact who I am each day and how our team performs. That remains my focus.”