A Career Worth Renaming a City
Before Paige Bueckers became the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, she built a résumé that reads like a legend in the making. Her college career at UConn wasn’t just successful—it was historic, marked by perseverance, poise, and peak performances when it mattered most.
Her final chapter with the Huskies came in true storybook fashion. On April 6, 2025, under the championship lights, Bueckers led UConn with 17 crucial points to help secure the program’s 12th national title. But that moment was just the exclamation point on a career filled with headline-worthy stats and unforgettable moments:
- 2020-21 (Freshman): Bueckers averaged 20.0 points, 5.8 assists, 4.9 rebounds, and 2.3 steals per game—while shooting an eye-popping 52.4% from the field and 46.4% from deep. She became the first freshman to win AP Player of the Year and Naismith Player of the Year honors.
- 2021-22 (Sophomore): An early-season injury limited her to 17 games, but she still managed to post 14.6 points and 3.9 assists per game while showcasing her determination and love for the game.
- 2022-23: A torn ACL sidelined her for the entire season. Still, she remained a presence in the locker room, growing into an even stronger leader.
- 2023-24 (Comeback Season): Bueckers returned better than ever, putting up 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game while shooting 53% from the field. She earned First Team All-American honors and shined in the tournament with 28 points in the Elite Eight vs. USC.
- 2024-25 (Senior Season): Her swan song included 19.9 points, 4.6 assists, and 2.1 steals per game. Her 40-point eruption against Oklahoma in the Sweet 16 will be remembered as one of the greatest March Madness performances in UConn history.
By the end of her college run, Bueckers racked up 2,439 career points, earned national player of the year accolades, and led the Huskies to multiple Final Fours—capping it all with a national championship.
Hopkins, Minnesota, isn’t just celebrating her recent draft-night glory—it’s celebrating a journey. A story of highs, lows, and a relentless drive that never wavered.
So if you needed another reminder of just how beloved UCONN basketball star Paige Bueckers is in her home state, here it is: Hopkins, Minnesota—the town where her basketball journey first took flight—is officially renaming itself in her honor. Yes, for one special day, the map will read Paige Bueckers, Minnesota.
Mark your calendars for May 16, 2025. That’s the day Hopkins will become a living tribute to its hometown hero, fresh off her selection as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. It’s a celebration not just of her incredible achievements on the court, but of the pride and joy she’s brought to her community.
Paige’s story has always been about more than stats or trophies. She’s been a symbol of excellence, humility, and drive—a generational talent whose impact reaches far beyond basketball. From leading Hopkins High School to multiple state championships, to inspiring a national fanbase at UConn, and now stepping into the pros with the weight of the No. 1 pick, Paige has never forgotten where she came from. And clearly, Hopkins hasn’t forgotten her either.
The temporary renaming is more than just a fun gesture—it’s a love letter from a city to one of its brightest stars. And it’s a reminder that even as her name lights up arenas across the country, Paige Bueckers will always be Minnesota-made.
So on May 16, when you see the signs, smile. Paige Bueckers, Minnesota—it has a nice ring to it.