Paige Bueckers, a name synonymous with women’s college basketball excellence, has officially embarked on her WNBA journey. Drafted as the No. 1 overall pick by the Dallas Wings in the 2025 WNBA draft, the UConn star is set to electrify the professional league. After a stellar college career marked by numerous accolades, including being a three-time unanimous first-team All-American, Bueckers is now poised to make her mark in the WNBA.
This article delves into the details of Paige Bueckers’ contract with the Dallas Wings, exploring her salary, potential earnings, and the broader context of WNBA player compensation. We’ll also examine the impact of NIL deals on her income and the future prospects for WNBA salaries in light of the league’s growing popularity. Get ready to discover what awaits Bueckers in her professional career.
A Storied College Career
Before joining the Dallas Wings, Paige Bueckers carved out an unforgettable legacy at the University of Connecticut. Over her five seasons, she achieved the rare feat of becoming a three-time unanimous first-team All-American. In 2021, she made history as the first freshman to win several major national player of the year awards, solidifying her status as a basketball prodigy. Bueckers’ leadership was instrumental in guiding the Huskies to four Final Four appearances under coach Geno Auriemma.
Her final trip to the national semifinals culminated in a storybook ending, as Bueckers led her team to a national title. This victory marked the perfect conclusion to her decorated college career, setting the stage for her transition to the professional ranks with immense anticipation.
“Paige has an incredible work ethic and a relentless drive to improve. She’s the kind of player who elevates everyone around her,” said Coach Auriemma in a post-game interview.
WNBA Draft and the Dallas Wings
The 2025 WNBA Draft, held in New York, saw the league’s 13 teams vying for the top prospects to build their franchises around. Paige Bueckers was selected as the No. 1 overall pick by the Dallas Wings, a team eager to revitalize their franchise. The Wings, formerly known as the Tulsa Shock, have struggled to find consistent success, and Bueckers is expected to be the catalyst for change.
Bueckers’ arrival in Dallas is highly anticipated, with fans and analysts alike predicting she will bring a new level of excitement and competitiveness to the team. The Wings hope that her skills and leadership will translate into on-court success, attracting more fans and elevating the team’s profile in the league.
Paige Bueckers’ Contract Details
As the No. 1 overall pick, Paige Bueckers is set to earn close to $350,000 over her four-year contract with the Dallas Wings. Her rookie season base salary is approximately $79,000. The WNBA operates under a tiered salary structure for its top draft picks, ensuring that the first four selections receive similar compensation packages.
Here’s a breakdown of Bueckers’ expected earnings for each year of her contract:
- 2025: $78,831
- 2026: $80,408
- 2027: $88,449
- 2028 (fourth-year option): $100,510
- Total value: $348,198
While these figures represent her base salary, Bueckers has the potential to significantly increase her income through endorsements and other opportunities.
Endorsements and NIL Deals
During her college career, Paige Bueckers was one of the highest-earning athletes in collegiate sports, thanks to name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals. She partnered with major brands such as Nike, Gatorade, Bose, Verizon, and Dunkin’, leveraging her popularity and marketability.
As she transitions to the WNBA, Bueckers will likely continue to attract endorsement deals, further supplementing her income. Her strong brand and widespread recognition make her an attractive partner for companies looking to reach a broad audience. These endorsement opportunities could potentially dwarf her base salary, making her one of the league’s top earners.
Future of WNBA Salaries
Paige Bueckers is entering the WNBA at a pivotal time. The current collective bargaining agreement between the WNBA and the WNBA Players Union is set to expire next season. With the league’s increasing popularity and a new 11-year media rights deal worth at least $200 million annually, player salaries are expected to rise significantly.
However, Bueckers’ current contract may not fully reflect the potential future earnings of players in her position. Depending on the terms of the new CBA, she may earn considerably less than future top draft picks. This situation highlights the ongoing evolution of the WNBA and its commitment to improving player compensation.
2025 WNBA Draft: First Round Picks
Here’s a look at how the rest of the first round of the 2025 WNBA draft unfolded after Paige Bueckers was selected:
- Dallas Wings: G Paige Bueckers, UConn
- Seattle Storm: Dominique Malonga
- Washington Mystics: Sonia Citron
- Washington Mystics: [Pick Details]
- Golden State Valkyries: [Pick Details]
- Washington Mystics: [Pick Details]
- Connecticut Sun: [Pick Details]
- Connecticut Sun: [Pick Details]
- Los Angeles Sparks: [Pick Details]
- Chicago Sky: [Pick Details]
- Chicago Sky: [Pick Details]
- Dallas Wings: [Pick Details]
Conclusion
Paige Bueckers’ entry into the WNBA as the No. 1 overall pick marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in her career. While her initial contract with the Dallas Wings provides a solid financial foundation, her potential for growth and increased earnings through endorsements and future CBA negotiations is substantial.
As the WNBA continues to gain popularity and secure lucrative media deals, players like Bueckers are poised to benefit from the league’s financial success. Her impact on and off the court will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing evolution of women’s basketball, making her a key figure to watch in the years to come.
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