The 2025 WNBA Draft concluded with a highly anticipated selection: UConn star Paige Bueckers was chosen as the first overall pick by the Dallas Wings. This marks a significant moment for both Bueckers and the Wings, who are hoping to turn their fortunes around after a challenging 9-31 season. Bueckers, a three-time first-team All-American and recent NCAA champion, joins an elite group of UConn players to receive the top draft pick honor, including legends like Sue Bird, Diana Taurasi, and Breanna Stewart.
The Wings’ selection of Bueckers signifies a strategic move to bolster their roster and inject excitement into their franchise. General Manager Curt Miller expressed his enthusiasm, highlighting Bueckers’ efficiency and decorated collegiate career as key factors in the decision. He also emphasized Bueckers’ community involvement, which aligns with the Wings’ organizational values. The team’s new coach, Chris Koclanes, shared similar sentiments, looking forward to Bueckers’ contribution both on and off the court.
The Wings’ offseason has been one of significant change. With the departures of stars Satou Sabally and Natasha Howard, the addition of Bueckers, along with other free-agent signings like DiJonai Carrington, Tyasha Harris, NaLyssa Smith, and Myisha Hines-Allen, signals a complete roster overhaul and a fresh start. This, coupled with the upcoming move to a new, larger arena in Dallas in 2026, sets the stage for a potentially exciting future for the Wings.
Bueckers brings a wealth of talent to the WNBA. She boasts the highest career scoring average in UConn history (19.8 PPG) and impressive shooting percentages. Despite overcoming significant knee injuries, including an ACL tear, she returned to the court stronger than ever, showcasing her versatility as both an on-ball and off-ball player. Many WNBA scouts view her as a point guard in the long term, and her potential pairing with Arike Ogunbowale could create one of the league’s most formidable backcourt duos.
The 2025 WNBA draft’s first round featured only 12 picks due to several teams trading away their selections. The absence of New York, Indiana, Minnesota, Phoenix, Atlanta, and Las Vegas (due to a league investigation) created a unique dynamic. The Wings, however, secured their top pick in the draft lottery, setting the stage for their selection of Bueckers and a potential turning point in their franchise history.
