Dallas will now have two stars. One, Luka Doncic stomping through the NBA scenes. Second, Paige Bueckers is most likely to become a Dallas Wings superstar in the WNBA next season as a projected first-overall pick. The UConn Huskies Guard will finally get the recognition she’s yet to get. She was supposed to be what Caitlin Clark is for the Fever- an icon. Nonetheless, it’s never too late for the grand schemes to come into play. And here we are!
With the No.1 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft Lottery in hand, the Dallas Wings will surely monopolize the game in their style. And it’s safe to say Bueckers will be their top choice. Amidst the draft lottery hubbub, something interesting has been happening behind the scenes. Well, hours after the WNBA draft lottery, the iconic trading cards brand Panini has signed a multi-year contract with the senior Husky.
Taking matters on X, the company tweeted, “The next generation of greatness on the court, and in the hobby. We’re incredibly excited to announce an exclusive multi-year trading card partnership with @PaigeBueckers1 #WhoDoYouCollect”
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The next generation of greatness on the court, and in the hobby.
We’re incredibly excited to announce an exclusive multi-year trading card partnership with @PaigeBueckers1. #WhoDoYouCollect pic.twitter.com/YxC6c6Ixen
— Panini America (@PaniniAmerica) November 19, 2024
Panini is the same brand that has signed the 2024 WNBA ROTY Caitlin Clark. Reports suggest the franchise is going to pay more than a million dollars to the super rook with future payments contingent on the amount of product created. So, you can say, Bueckers is already mirroring Clark’s path in the WNBA. However, there is a slight possibility that we might be overlooking an interesting turn of events, that is, if any.
What are the odds of Paige Bueckers avoiding Dallas Wings selections for next season?
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Will Paige Bueckers outshine Luka Doncic as Dallas' new sports icon? Let's hear your thoughts!
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“I just fell to my knees. THANK YOU LORD! 😭😭😭😭” Wings guard Arike Ogunbowale did not hide her excitement as Dallas, who originally had the third pick, received the first pick for the 2025 WNBA Draft. And why would she? One of the best one-on-one WNBA players, as per Caitlin Clark, will now be paired alongside one of the best Huskies in Bueckers.
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You can feel the excitement in the air in the Wings squad. Dallas fans are already celebrating their team’s No.1 Draft Lottery win. Moreover, they’re expecting that the front office will most definitely bring in the once-in-a-generation talent Paige Bueckers to the franchise. However, there could be a minute possibility that the UConn star could change the trajectory of the decision. But, how?
There might be a chance that Bueckers won’t opt to walk into the pro league next year. This means she could return to UConn for the 2025-26 NCAA season. Meanwhile, some fans on social media reminded the excited die-hards that the guard has an additional season eligibility in the NCAA after 2024/25. Moreover, rumors suggest that the 23-year-old is more inclined towards the Los Angeles Sparks than the Wings. So, this preference could also add to the alteration of plans.
The Paige Bueckers saga is heating up. Dallas Wings fans dream of her as their future star, while whispers suggest she may stay at UConn or eye a glitzier LA future. Meanwhile, Panini’s big signing is cementing her rising legacy. However, the draft remains a wildcard. Will she claim her Wings, or will the court see a plot twist? Stay tuned for this star’s next move!
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Will Paige Bueckers outshine Luka Doncic as Dallas' new sports icon? Let's hear your thoughts!