New York, New York – The WNBA’s latest generation of rising stars has descended upon New York City for the highly anticipated 2025 draft, set to take place at 7:30 p.m. ET on Monday evening. Before embarking on their journey to their new teams, the players enjoyed a visit to the iconic Empire State Building to soak in the breathtaking views of the city.
One notable presence among the group was Paige Bueckers, the standout from UConn Huskies, whose talent has positioned her as the likely No. 1 overall pick by the Dallas Wings. Bueckers recently led her college team to a national championship victory against the South Carolina Gamecocks, capping off an impressive collegiate career.
Despite the Huskies’ seemingly dominant run in the NCAA Tournament, clinching victory by double-digit margins in every game, the mental fortitude required to reclaim the national title was no easy feat. Bueckers, captured in a photo moment at the Empire State Building, stirred reactions among fans on social media who noted her exhausted appearance.
Throughout her four seasons at UConn, Bueckers garnered a slew of accolades, solidifying herself as a force to be reckoned with on the court. Standing tall at 6 feet, the Minnesota native boasts a remarkable resume that includes three-time unanimous first-team All-American honors, along with prestigious awards such as the John R. Wooden Award, USBWA National Player of the Year, Naismith College Player of the Year, and AP Player of the Year, to name a few.
During the most recent season, Bueckers showcased her versatility on the court, averaging nearly 20 points, along with solid rebounding and playmaking abilities. As the draft night approaches, the anticipation grows as fans eagerly await to see where the next chapter of Bueckers’ basketball journey will take her in the WNBA.
The upcoming draft holds great significance not only for Bueckers but also for numerous rising stars across the country vying for a chance to make their mark in the professional basketball realm. As the excitement builds, the energy and anticipation surrounding the draft night in New York City serve as a testament to the bright future that lies ahead for the talented athletes of the WNBA.