Paige Bueckers’ collegiate career has been anything but easy – plagued by injuries that threatened to derail her journey. But despite these setbacks, she’s managed to make a lasting impact on the court. One of her recent performances against St. John’s Red Storm in a 71-45 UConn win is just another example of her resilience.

Though Bueckers played well despite a leg sprain, it was clear that UConn’s head coach, Geno Auriemma, wasn’t completely satisfied. True to his nature, Auriemma didn’t sugarcoat his feedback, offering a direct challenge to his star player. As the spotlight turned to Bueckers, she once again deflected attention away from herself and back to the person who’s known for pushing her to be great.

During practice, Geno showed off a little magic of his own, hitting a jaw-dropping bucket from inside the three-point line. Of course, Bueckers couldn’t resist sharing this moment on her Instagram story. She reposted the clip with the simple yet perfect caption: “Quite Sassy.” It was clear she admired Auriemma’s skills on the court, and those two words summed it up.

But their bond isn’t just limited to Instagram stories and playful exchanges. Paige has often spoken about her deep respect for Auriemma, who has played a pivotal role in her development.

How Paige Bueckers’ “scared” start with Geno Auriemma led to a winning bond?

When she first arrived at UConn, Bueckers was intimidated by the coach. She admitted she was “scared” during her recruitment, feeling “timid and shy” and worrying that saying the wrong thing could jeopardize her chance of playing for him. “I was pretty scared of him,” Paige once confessed. But as time went on, she realized Auriemma’s tough love approach was designed to bring out the best in her.

For Auriemma, it’s been clear from the start that Bueckers had extraordinary potential. He has consistently emphasized that she’s a player capable of greatness. After recovering from a torn ACL and other injuries, Bueckers has come back stronger than ever.

Auriemma has high expectations for her, and he’s vocal about it. “I still want her to try to get 30 whenever she can,” he said, aware that her potential is limitless. “Her potential is through the roof, and we’re hoping she can help lead us to a national championship.”

Bueckers has certainly risen to the occasion. With an average of 19.4 points per game, the first-team All-American guard has stepped up when it counts. In a recent UConn-Syracuse showdown, she scored two crucial points with less than two minutes remaining to make it a two-point game, and with 30 seconds left, she pushed UConn ahead by six. In the final moments, she even drew a foul after securing a defensive rebound to seal the win.

Reflecting on her contributions, Auriemma said, “I just think this team will go as far as she’s able to carry that kind of a load.” It’s clear that Paige Bueckers has earned her spot as one of the most valuable players in the game, and under Auriemma’s watchful eye, she’s set to lead UConn toward even greater success.