“Most skilled player we’ve seen in a while”: Fans go gaga over Paige Bueckers’ dominant outing in UConn's exhibition game
Paige Bueckers seemed to pick up from where she left off last season, putting in a dazzling display in the UConn Huskies' exhibition game against the Fort Hays State Tigers on Sunday. The Big East Preseason Player of the Year was the headline act in the Huskies' 89-48 victory, setting the tone for the upcoming season.
At half-time, Bueckers recorded 19 points, three rebounds, two assists and a block, while going eight-for-eight from the field and making all three of her 3-point attempts.
She finished with 27 points and nine rebounds, shooting 12 of 14 from the field and three of four from three-point range. Her performances left Huskies fans awestruck, who took to social media to praise the talented guard.
Some fans were mesmerized by her display, sharing kind words on X to celebrate an incredible performance.
"Paige Bueckers is the most skilled player we've seen in a long time," said one fan.
Another fan said, "y'all should be very scared."
"Paige is top 2 in the country, and she's not 2," added another fan.
Other fans debated her decision to come back to Storrs, believing she is already prepared to take the next step and make it big in the WNBA.
"She definitely needed to go back to school to develop her game. She’s been doing a solid job but needs to elevate her play to be considered a top player," said one fan.
Another fan exclaimed, "SHES LITERALLY NOT REAL. MY MF GOAT!!! GETTING THAT NPOTY, NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP AND MOP JUST YALL WAIT!!!!"
"Say healthy. Going to be a great career in the @WNBA," added another.
Paige Bueckers one of two players to earn unanimous AP Preseason All-American honors
Bueckers, who earned unanimous All-American honors last season, was recognized by the Associated Press, earning a place in their Preseason All-American team. She was one of two players to receive a unanimous selection, with USC's JuJu Watkins being the other, who enters her sophomore season after a phenomenal freshman season.
Touted as one of the top picks in next year's WNBA draft, Paige Bueckers is keen to win the one title that has eluded her thus far: the coveted national championship. She will begin her final season in college basketball on November 7, when the Huskies take on the Boston University Terriers in front of their adoring fans at Storrs.