The spirits in Dallas were high yesterday as they became the only city to win the first pick in both the NBA & WNBA drafts in the same year. While Cooper Flagg is only a month away from donning a Dallas snapback, their other top pick from UConn is already feeling settled in Texas. No, we aren’t just talking about adorning the gifted cowboy boots and hats, or the preseason game where a crowd of over 6000 welcomed her home. This one’s a little closer home to the athlete in her. However, fans had a different matter to gush about.

While the Mystics trio kicked off their D.C., journeys with the first pitch at the Nationals game, and Kaitlyn Chen showed up for the Golden State Warriors, Paige is marking hers with a visit to the American Airlines Center. Albeit a little late, the Wings’ star is embracing Dallas’ sports scene, showing up in support of the Dallas Stars, the city’s NHL pride. Right alongside her? No, it wasn’t a Wings player here, but Bueckers’ former teammate, KK Arnold.

KK and Paige’s dynamic at UConn was surely one to cherish. But it becomes hard to describe thanks to the multiple roles the two would play for each other. While Arnold has spoken about the positive influence of Bueckers on her, it was the shenanigans of the two that were famous across the Storrs.

They were often seen together, be it making TikToks or Bueckers sharing her basketball wisdom with the youngster. “She’s definitely like a little sister to me, she keeps me young as much as I feel old, and she just has a great sense of humor,” said Bueckers. “Just an amazing person to be around, can never have a bad day when you’re around KK. I think we just, we relate a lot to things. We just talk and kick it and hang out, but definitely like little sister.”

While KK is still a student at UConn, the distance has not made the two grow any less fonder. Earlier this week, Paige mentioned during a shootaround that her former teammates KK and Azzi Fudd will be visiting her before the season opener, showing the love and support the sister-like duo share. And while Bueckers will be busy kickstarting her rookie season, she will find the time for this family as she will be visiting the Storrs campus around the end of the month.

The expectations from Bueckers seemed clear by her reception at the Stars’ game as they took on the Jets in the second-round of the Playoffs. Bueckers presence felt like a lucky charm as the team picked up a 3-1 lead, meaning they’re only one win away from the conference finals. For the UConn fans though, the moment was all about their beloved stars and the nostalgia it evoked.

Fans react to a Husky reunion

A fan commented, “So KK is the favorite child”. Which was promptly replied to using a reference of a former Husky and said, ” the 2nd favorite, the favorite is Ines”, speaking of Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Ines Bittencourt. When Ines left for Gonzaga in 2024, Paige had posted a heartfelt message for her. “Man… forever my son 🥹 I love you my child, go be great 💙” the post said highlighting Bueckers’ relationship with her peers at UConn.

The admin of UConn’s official account couldn’t contain their emotions either and commented “our girls 🥹” underneath the post. Paige and Arnold shared the court for 2 years before the former had her storybook ending with the NCAA trophy and left to hear her name be called at The Shade.

You already know the bond they shared and probably even the time KK clenched her fist to go at an opponent after Paige was injured in an avoidable scuffle. So, only right of the program and the fans to reminisce over the adorable bond. “Oh my gosh! KK and Paige back together!! 😭🥲” came another comment.

The excitement, however, wasn’t limited to fans of basketball. Paige is no stranger to expressing her love for sports teams. A huge Kyrie Irving fan, she has openly supported the Mavs and coming from Minnesota, she has been an ardent follower of the Lynx. But this one was a little special. New city, new sport. So the NHL fans rejoiced in the 2021 Wooden award winner’s appearance in the hockey scene. The fan’s comment said, “OMG OMG OMG BUECKERS X NHL I LOVE”. They weren’t alone.

While fans continued to shower love on the duo they miss dearly, even though it’s barely been a month, Dallas fans took the opportunity to invite Bueckers and KK to another sporting event.  “@paigebueckers bring you and your friends to a @dallastrinityfc match! It’s fun!” the user posted, signifying the status that Bueckers has built for herself even before starting her rookie season.

KK’s visit once again highlights the closeness she shares with Paige. While they did make an appearance at the Stars’ games, KK’s visit might have to do with the Wings’ much awaited home opener. Being the first-pick, all eyes will be on Paige. So to wind down and relax before the Wings set sail would be the ideal way forward. Because the W gives no room for relaxation, A new chapter to Bueckers’ heroic tale starts on the 16th of May. Don’t miss out.