Be it last year or this, Paige Bueckers has been successful in creating buzz around the WNBA Draft. While last year she opted for her fifth year of eligibility, this season it seems Bueckers would finally depart from Huskies for W. And, the preparation for her arrival is already in discussion with the Dallas Wings bagging the no.1 pick in the draft lottery.

Projected to be no.1 in the draft scheduled for April 2025, Paige is highly anticipated to pair with Arike Ogunbowale in Dallas. While still a prediction, Ogunbowale was excited at the franchise returning with the desired results from the draft lottery. “I just fell to my knees. THANK YOU LORD! 😭😭😭😭” she penned minutes after the lottery ended. However, the post attracted criticism from spectators online.

One user mocked, hinting at the Wings’ star’s reluctance to pass the ball if paired with Bueckers. The user wrote: “Paige: Arike, I’m open for a three! Pass the ball, please. Arike: [a video of Perkins dribbling endlessly].” There were a few more who matched the sentiment.

How could Ogunbowale sit back and watch? She responded by saying, “idk why people don’t realize I never cared 💀 like not to b insensitive but I’m healthy, VERY happy, & get paid to hoop. & most importantly, extremely blessed by God.” This made it clear that she was unfazed by the online criticism.

But while that went on, fans jumping in to predict Paige’s potential landing and where she could have suited well, the 23-year-old Huskies guard, remains unaffected.

As per the video shared by UConn Daily, Paige revealed that she did not watch the draft lottery on Sunday. When asked about how she has been dealing with all the controversy surrounding the 2025 draft and the potential distractions it could bring Bueckers states that it is the practice that keeps her withdrawn.

“I think I’ve mostly dealt with it by focusing on having a greater practice today,” she says. No doubt, Bueckers is a focused player, averaging 21.3 points per game, leading her team as the most experienced player, and eyes on the trophy she skipped last year’s draft for. While Paige could still return to UConn for another campaign next year, it is highly unlikely. So going by the conversations and possibilities now, she can very well land with the Wings, who might find just the right fit in the Huskies standout.

And, that’s what makes her a fit for Wings!

The Dallas Wings have struggled to get past the first round of the playoffs for the past 20 years, with their deepest run being a semifinal appearance last season. While similar success was anticipated for the 2024 season, injuries plagued their roster, leaving them ranked 11th. Adding Paige Bueckers to the team’s roster for the 2025 season presents an ideal opportunity to inject fresh talent into their lineup.

As a point guard, Bueckers could fill a critical position and strengthen the backcourt. Her presence would be a much-needed boost for the franchise’s chances, especially when paired with standout veteran Arike Ogunbowale on the court.

However, the team faces significant changes. Natasha Howard, a key player in the Wings’ 2023 semifinals run, has hinted at her departure in a social media post. Additionally, Satou Sabally, another core member of the 2023 squad, is set to enter free agency. Drafting Bueckers could be the jumpstart the Wings need to rebuild. But whatever the situation of the team, the 23-year-old has mounting pressure to lift them up.