Paige Bueckers, set to begin the upcoming season with UConn, has established herself as the prominent figure within the program. Opting out of her WNBA Draft eligibility, she has decided to extend her college basketball career for at least one more year before transitioning to the professional league.
Bueckers is poised to be a strong leader for UConn due to her positive rapport with her teammates. In a TikTok video that has gained popularity, she can be seen discussing her close bond with UConn’s Ice Brady. Reflecting on their connection, Bueckers attributed the start of their friendship to their respective challenges—an injury that sidelined Brady during Bueckers’ red-shirt season.
“Since both Ice and I faced our injury struggles around the same time,” Bueckers shared, “we grew exceptionally close during that period, relying on each other’s support and strengths. We also nurtured our faith together, attending Bible studies and church as a duo. I reassured her that God’s timing is always impeccable.”
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“She has faced numerous challenges throughout the season, experiencing fluctuations and the typical difficulties of being a freshman at UConn, which I reminded her of on several occasions. Witnessing her development and discussing how she shines brightest in critical moments has been incredibly rewarding. Watching her rise to the occasion with confidence when the entire team has faith in her, I aim to nurture that self-assurance within her and ensure she seizes the moment,” she elaborated.
Paige Bueckers has consistently been a supportive companion to Ice Brady. She recently showcased their friendship in a couple of Instagram stories to celebrate Brady’s birthday, expressing her deep affection for her in the posts.
In her initial story, Bueckers wrote, “Happy birthday to my Icey,” followed by a heartfelt message in her second story, stating, “I love you. You already know how it is.”
Brady encountered a challenging start to her collegiate basketball journey, entering the team out of admiration for head coach Geno Auriemma. Unfortunately, she faced an injury that required her to undergo rehabilitation throughout her entire freshman season.
During the Huskies’ media days, Auriemma acknowledged Brady’s exceptional talent as a player but lamented her misfortune in sustaining an injury.
Paige Bueckers provided guidance and support to Ice Brady while they both were dealing with injuries
Paige Bueckers and Ice Brady experienced redshirt seasons in 2022-23 due to knee injuries. Despite the setbacks, they uplifted each other during the challenging times and emerged stronger.
“As hard as it was, having each other for support during the toughest moments of our lives was incredibly significant,” Bueckers expressed to CT Insider.
As a senior, Bueckers took Brady under her wing and offered guidance when Brady faced injury in her freshman year. “She really embraced me and served as a mentor,” Brady shared with CT Insider.
Now that they have recovered, the upcoming 2024-25 season presents an opportune moment for both players to showcase their skills, enhance their draft prospects, and excel.
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