Paige Bueckers Returns to Connecticut for WNBA Showdown

UNCASVILLE, CT — Former University of Connecticut women’s basketball star Paige Bueckers returned to her home state Monday ahead of a matchup between her current team, the Dallas Wings, and the Connecticut Sun. The game is set for Tuesday at 6 p.m. CT at Mohegan Sun Arena.

This will be Bueckers’ first game as a WNBA player in Connecticut after she was the No. 1 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. Both teams are currently seeking their first victories of the season, as they each hold a 0-4 record.

Bueckers has been performing well for the Wings, averaging 13 points and 6.3 assists per game. Her recent performances have made her the fastest player in WNBA history to achieve 50 points and 25 assists in the first four games, a record previously held by fellow UConn alum Sue Bird.

The Wings lost to the Atlanta Dream on Saturday, 83-75, with NaLyssa Smith scoring 13 points. The Sun faced a more significant defeat against the Dream on Sunday, falling 79-55, with Marina Mabrey leading Connecticut with just 12 points.

Bueckers expressed excitement about returning to Connecticut, a place she considers her second home. “I feel like Mohegan is like my second home to Gampel [Pavilion] in Connecticut, so it’s great to be back,” she said. “It’ll be weird stepping on the court not in a UConn uniform, but I’ll enjoy this new experience.”

Coach Chris Koclanes of the Wings acknowledged the challenges the team has faced but is encouraged by their determination. “This group has always fought, and that’s something we can get behind,” he said.

Meanwhile, Connecticut is looking to turn around its season after losing its starting five from last year’s team. First-year coach Rachid Meziane emphasized the need for his players to find their competitive spirit following their recent struggles.

As the Wings and Sun both search for their first wins, the stakes are high for Bueckers to shine in a familiar environment. A victory would not only mark her first in the WNBA but also resonate with her storied college career.

Tipoff at Mohegan Sun Arena is scheduled for 7 p.m. CT.