14 Photos That Prove Paige Bueckers Is Built for the Big Stage
Paige Bueckers has delivered big plays and emotional moments throughout her college basketball career, proving she thrives under pressure.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
This article highlights 14 unforgettable images that show why Paige Bueckers is one of the most clutch and composed players in NCAA basketball. From her record-breaking freshman season to winning a national title in 2025, each photo captures a defining moment. These images reflect her leadership, emotion, and greatness on the biggest stages of the sport.
1. 2021 – Historic Freshman Sweep
David Butler II-Imagn Images
As a freshman at UConn, Bueckers won the Naismith, Wooden, and AP Player of the Year awards — a first in women’s NCAA basketball history. She led her team with a record-setting 168 assists and back-to-back 30-point games. Opponents quickly recognized her impact across all aspects of play.
2. 2022 – Elite-Eight Double-OT vs. NC State
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In a double-overtime showdown against NC State, Bueckers delivered 27 points across 45 minutes. She guided UConn into its 14th straight Final Four in a legendary performance. The photo shows her emotion mid-game, reflecting her clutch leadership.
3. Nov 15, 2024 – Season-Higher 29 vs. North Carolina
Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images
During a game at Mohegan Sun Arena, Bueckers scored 29 points, including a buzzer-beating three. She shot nearly 57% from the floor and 50% from deep. The win earned her Big East Player of the Week honors. The photo captures her celebration right after the game-winning shot.
4. Jan 19, 2025 – 2,000 Career Points
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In a game against Seton Hall at Gampel Pavilion, Bueckers reached 2,000 career points — tying the fastest in UConn history. She logged 18 points and seven assists in that game. The image shows her in mid-jump after knocking down the milestone jumper.
5. Mar 10, 2025 – Big East Tournament MVP
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At Mohegan Sun Arena, she led UConn to the Big East title, scoring 24 points with a 50/60/100 performance. The photo shows her receiving the Most Outstanding Player trophy, beaming at the podium.
6. Mar 24, 2025 – Career-High 34 vs. South Dakota State
David Butler II-Imagn Images
In her final home game at Gampel Pavilion, Bueckers dropped 34 points, tying her career-high. The Huskies cruised to a 91–57 win. She received a standing ovation as she exited the court. The image captures her pure emotion during that standout game.
7. Mar 29, 2025 – Tournament Record 40 vs. Oklahoma
James Snook-Imagn Images
On March 29, 2025, at Spokane Arena, Paige Bueckers delivered a dominant performance in the Sweet 16 against Oklahoma. She scored a career-high 40 points, including 29 in the second half, helping UConn secure a key tournament win. Her scoring burst set a new UConn NCAA Tournament record. The photo shows her running back on defense during the second half, fully locked in.
8. Apr 6, 2025 – National Championship Victory vs. South Carolina
Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
On April 6, 2025, UConn defeated South Carolina 82–59 to win their 12th national championship. Paige Bueckers played a key role alongside teammate Kaitlyn Chen in securing the title. The team dominated from start to finish in front of a packed crowd at Amalie Arena. The photo shows Bueckers and Chen celebrating together moments after the final buzzer.
9. Apr 8, 2025 – Net-Cutting Celebration
Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
After the championship win, Bueckers cut down the net — a classic symbol of NCAA victory. She wore the net around her neck during celebrations in Tampa and later at Storrs with fans and teammates. It was a personal and symbolic moment after a long journey back from injury. The image shows her cutting off a piece of the net, smiling as she reaches the top of the ladder.
10. Apr 8, 2025 – Emotional Podium Moment
David Butler II-Imagn Images
Following their return to Storrs, Bueckers addressed fans at Gampel Pavilion. She delivered an emotional speech and accepted the national celebration. This photo captures her at the podium, filled with gratitude.
11. Apr 6, 2025 – Coach Auriemma’s Tearful Hug
Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
Moments before the game ended, Geno Auriemma hugged Bueckers at the final substitution. It was his tearful acknowledgment of her journey and achievement. The photo captures Geno’s words, “I love you,” and their bond.
12. 2025 – Sealing the Title on the Bracket
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
On April 6, 2025, after winning the national championship, Paige Bueckers placed the final sticker on the NCAA Tournament bracket. This act officially marked UConn as the 2025 champions. It was a quiet but powerful tradition that capped off the team’s dominant run. The photo shows her focused as she applies the national champion sticker in front of the crowd in Tampa.
13. Apr 22, 2025 – Emotional Farewell Post
Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Days after the title, Bueckers shared an emotional goodbye to UConn fans via Instagram. She thanked teammates, coaches, and the community that supported her through injuries and triumphs. A photo shows her hugging Geno at Storrs, marking the end of her college era.
14. Apr 2025 – Draft Week Reflection
David Butler II-Imagn Images
Around the 2025 WNBA Draft, Bueckers reflected on her UConn journey and challenges overcome, including an ACL injury. The image shows her at media day surrounded by reporters and family. It highlights the transition from college champion to pro hopeful.