The No. 5 Connecticut Huskies entered Sunday’s game with high emotion, as it was Senior Day for many of the key players who have been pivotal to the team's success this season and in previous years.
Among those key figures is star guard Paige Bueckers, a fan favorite since she joined the UConn program. Bueckers has faced numerous challenges throughout her collegiate career, most notably a major knee injury that caused her to miss the entire 2022 season. However, she made a remarkable recovery and returned better than ever, culminating in a stellar performance to close out the regular season.
In a dominant 92-57 victory over Marquette, Bueckers led the charge with 19 points, seven assists, four rebounds, and three steals. Her performance not only helped secure the win but also marked a significant milestone in her career.
Following the game, an historic achievement was revealed about Bueckers' college basketball journey at the Division I level. According to OptaSTATS, she is the only player in Division I, men’s or women’s, in the 21st century to record over 2,000 points, 500-plus rebounds, 500-plus assists, shoot 50% or better from the field, 40% or better from beyond the arc, and 80% or better from the free-throw line.
In the 21st century, only one Division I player has had:
— OptaSTATS (@OptaSTATS) March 3, 2025
2000+ points
500+ rebounds
500+ assists
50.0+ FG%
40.0+ 3P%
80.0+ FT%
...in his or her career. That one player is @UConnWBB's Paige Bueckers. pic.twitter.com/FiGUWqfgMP
Now, the Huskies will shift their focus to the Big East Conference Tournament before preparing for the NCAA Tournament, where they'll have a legitimate case as one of the four No. 1 seeds.
With Sunday’s win, UConn finished the regular season with an impressive 28-3 overall record and a perfect 18-0 in conference play.
This season, Bueckers has been outstanding, averaging 18.6 points, 4.9 assists, and 4.5 rebounds. Over her four years at UConn, she’s averaged an impressive 19.5 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game, leaving a lasting legacy at the program.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!