Case File No.27: Paige Bueckers

 

Paige Bueckers. Photo Credit: Ian Bethune/The UConn Blog

Today, I dive into the case file of UConn's Paige Bueckers, who is not only projected to be a lottery pick in the 2024 WNBA draft, but is slated to be one of the first two to be picked. Before I continue, train like a superhero with personal trainer and martial arts instructor, Simone Marini. This lesson focuses on strength, mobility, speed, and cardio. You can purchase the course here.

Position: Point guard

HT: 6-0

College: Connecticut

Class: Senior 

Credentials:

AP Player of the Year (2021)

Naismith College Player of the Year (2021)

Big East Player of the Year (2021)

First-team All-Big East (2021)

Strengths:

-Lights out shooter

-Can score in multiple ways 

-Great ball handler

-Good passer

-Uses her length and quickness to play passing lanes 

Weakness:

-Takes ill-advised shots at times

-Could be a better playmaker as a passer than she is

Final Analysis:

Paige is a dangerous shooter and scorer who can do both in multiple ways. Although her range extends beyond the three-point line, her off the dribble shot around or above the key is deadly.

Although she's better with the ball, she's willing to move without the ball. She's an excellent ball handler who is able to keep her dribble and make plays in traffic.

I didn't see any glaring flaws in her game, she will take ill-advised shots, and there has been some concern about her trying to do too much. With her playmaking ability as a passer when she chooses to, I would like to see her demonstrate more of that without compromising her game.

As dangerous of a player as Paige is, I still think she's potential untapped, who has yet to reach her ceiling.