Paige Bueckers’ Relationship Status: Separating Fact from Fiction

By Jason Bolton April 22, 2025 15:58

As Paige Bueckers transitions from UConn legend to WNBA rookie, fans are clamoring for details about her personal life—particularly her dating status. The 22-year-old guard, known for her surgical playmaking and clutch performances, has remained tight-lipped about romance, prioritizing basketball amid a whirlwind of fame. Here’s what we know (and don’t know) about her relationships.

The Rumors: From Quarterbacks to Teammates

Bueckers has been linked to several high-profile athletes, though none confirmed by her directly. The most persistent rumors involve:

Spencer Rattler: The former Oklahoma Sooners quarterback (now with the New Orleans Saints) was reportedly Bueckers’ high school sweetheart. The two met in Minnesota, where Rattler’s family has deep roots in sports and business. While neither publicly acknowledged a relationship, their social media interactions fueled speculation.
Jalen Suggs: The Orlando Magic guard and Gonzaga star has been a close friend since childhood. Their bond—often highlighted in viral photos—led to dating rumors, but both insist they’re “just friends.” Suggs is currently dating TCU guard Hailey Van Lith.
Matt Freeman: Recent reports suggest Bueckers may be romantically involved with the New Zealand-born UConn walk-on. However, no concrete evidence or statements from either party support this claim.

Bueckers’ Stance: “Focused on Basketball”

In a February 2025 interview with GQ, Bueckers shut down dating questions. “I’m more just focused on basketball,” she said, laughing off the scrutiny. “It’s a crazy world out here.” Her comments reflect the balancing act of managing fame, career goals, and personal privacy.

Teammates have become her chosen family. During COVID-19 lockdowns, Bueckers grew particularly close to her UConn freshman class. “I feel like they’re going to be my bridesmaids,” she told GQ, though she clarified, “Not that I’m planning a wedding anytime soon.”

The Social Media Frenzy

Bueckers’ 2.3 million TikTok followers and 1.8 million Instagram fans dissect her every post for clues. A 2024 gym session with UConn’s Tyler Polley sparked brief speculation, but Bueckers dismissed it as friendly banter. Similarly, her courtside interactions with Suggs during March Madness drew attention, though both reiterated their platonic bond.

Why the Curiosity?

Bueckers’ relatability fuels the fascination. Whether joking about Chipotle cravings or advocating for social justice, she resonates with Gen Z audiences in ways few athletes can. Her authenticity—paired with a guarded personal life—creates an enigmatic allure. As branding expert Joe Favorito notes, “She’s not just selling a persona; she’s selling a movement.”

The WNBA Spotlight

Now the Dallas Wings’ No. 1 pick, Bueckers faces intensified scrutiny. While male athletes like LeBron James and Patrick Mahomes navigate similar attention, female stars often endure disproportionate focus on their relationships. Bueckers, however, seems prepared. “I’m here to win championships and grow the game,” she said after the draft, redirecting the narrative to her professional ambitions.

The Bottom Line

As of 2025, Paige Bueckers appears single and laser-focused on her WNBA career. While rumors persist, her public comments and actions suggest basketball remains her priority. For fans hoping for a love story, patience is key—Bueckers’ next chapter is unfolding on the court, not in the tabloids.