Why didn't Paige Bueckers go to WNBA?

By Jocelyn Alano November 23, 2023 01:57

Photo by C. Morgan Engel/NCAA Photos via Getty Images

Paige Bueckers, the star point guard for the University of Connecticut women's basketball team, has captured the attention of fans and analysts alike with her impressive skills and poise on the court. Despite her success as a freshman, Bueckers has announced that she will not be entering the WNBA draft in 2024, as she is eligible to do so. Many fans and analysts have been left wondering why Bueckers has made this decision, given her undeniable talent and potential as a professional player. In this article, we will explore the various factors that may have contributed to Bueckers' decision to stay in college and delay her entry into the WNBA.

One possible factor that may have influenced Bueckers' decision is her age. As of 2023, Bueckers is still relatively young, having just turned 20 years old. While many WNBA players are able to make successful transitions to the professional league at a young age, Bueckers may feel that she still has much to learn and improve upon before making the jump to the pros. Additionally, spending more time in college could allow Bueckers to develop her game even further, potentially making her a more valuable asset to a WNBA team in the future.

Another factor that may have played a role in Bueckers' decision is the WNBA's draft eligibility rules. As mentioned in, the league requires players to either complete four years of college or turn 22 in the calendar year of the draft in order to be eligible for selection. While Bueckers will meet the age requirement in 2024, she may feel that she is not yet ready to leave college and enter the professional ranks. This decision could be influenced by a variety of factors, including her desire to continue developing as a player, her comfort and familiarity with the college game, and her desire to earn a degree before turning her attention fully to basketball.

Another possible reason for Bueckers' decision is her injury history. As noted in the provided search results, Bueckers has suffered a series of knee injuries that have required extensive rehab and training. These setbacks may have caused Bueckers to reevaluate her priorities and goals as a player, leading her to focus more on her overall health and well-being rather than solely on her basketball career. By staying in college and continuing to work with her coaches and trainers, Bueckers may feel that she is better able to manage her injuries and avoid further setbacks.

Finally, it is worth noting that Bueckers may simply enjoy playing college basketball and feel no rush to move on to the professional ranks. While many talented college players are eager to make the jump to the WNBA as soon as possible, Bueckers may feel that she is in no hurry to leave the college game behind. She may enjoy the camaraderie and competition of playing alongside her UConn teammates, as well as the opportunity to compete for championships and showcase her skills on a national stage.

There are a variety of factors that may have contributed to Paige Bueckers' decision to delay her entry into the WNBA. While some fans and analysts may be disappointed by her decision, it is ultimately up to Bueckers to determine the best path forward for her career and her life. Whether she decides to enter the WNBA in the future or continue playing college basketball, Bueckers is sure to continue impressing fans and analysts alike with her talent, poise, and determination on the court.