After a slow start to her professional career, Nika Mühl faced a significant setback on Oct. 3 when she tore her ACL in her first game overseas. This injury occurred in Turkey, just over a week after the Seattle Storm were eliminated by the Las Vegas Aces in the playoffs, marking the end of their 2024 season.
In the wake of her injury, Mühl received an outpouring of support and encouragement. Her former college teammate, Paige Bueckers, quickly reached out to show her solidarity.
“I talked to Nika before practice, before she got the news,” Bueckers told Erik Dobratz of WTNH News. “I know she has a strong support system here, and while the journey ahead won’t be easy, I believe she will excel. She’s determined to tackle the rehab and comeback process with tenacity. It’s truly unfortunate.
“You never wish injuries on anyone. Our whole crew is praying for her. While it’s a devastating situation, our focus is on being present and supporting her.”
Former UConn star Nika Muhl suffered a knee injury today playing in a game in Turkey. She tore her ACL in her left knee. At UConn practice today we asked @paigebueckers1 about her former teammate. pic.twitter.com/hFAS6IKher
— Erik Dobratz (@Erikd25) October 4, 2024
Nika Mühl and Paige Bueckers have shared a close relationship throughout their time at UConn. The two guards were part of the program’s highly lauded 2020 recruiting class, which was enhanced by Bueckers being widely considered the top prospect of the year.
However, despite enrolling at UConn in the same year, Bueckers is preparing for her final season in Mansfield while Mühl just wrapped up her rookie year in the WNBA. The former sat out the 2022-2023 season due to her own torn ACL, granting her an additional year of eligibility.
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