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Paige Bueckers Sends Final Message as UConn Career Ends in Storybook Fashion

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Tristan Afshar | Last updated Apr 7, 2025 9:47 PM ET

The moment had been building for years. Paige Bueckers, UConn’s star guard and emotional leader, finally capped off her collegiate career with the one thing that had eluded her—an NCAA championship.

On Monday, as the Huskies returned to Connecticut to celebrate their national title win over South Carolina, Bueckers stood before a packed crowd of UConn fans and addressed them for the last time as a player.

With tears in her eyes, she reflected on the journey, the setbacks, and the overwhelming gratitude she felt in that moment.

Bueckers Leaves Nothing Unsaid in Emotional Send-Off

“This is an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the entire journey,” she told the fans. “This place is a second home to me. Thank you so much for everything.”

Bueckers’ five-year stint in Storrs included injuries, comeback campaigns, and countless moments of brilliance. And though many thought she had nothing left to prove, winning the 2024 national title solidified her legacy.

"This place is a second home to me..."

Paige Bueckers gets emotional addressing the UConn fans at the Huskies' championship rally pic.twitter.com/gwclqpOn9x
— UConn on SNY (@SNYUConn) April 7, 2025

Her relationship with head coach Geno Auriemma was often described as one of the closest in program history. Auriemma admitted before the title game that Bueckers “deserves to go out as a national champion”—a wish that ultimately came true.

As for what comes next, all signs point to Bueckers heading to the WNBA. But her time at UConn will be remembered as one of the most emotional, inspiring chapters in the school’s decorated history.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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