As the 2025 WNBA Draft approaches, all eyes are on Paige Bueckers. The UConn superstar has been the clear favorite to go first overall for months, and all signs pointed to her joining the Dallas Wings, who hold the No. 1 pick. But just when it seemed like the situation was set, a surprising twist has left fans wondering: could Bueckers end up somewhere else? It’s a story that’s got everyone talking, and we’re about to dive in.

From the start, Bueckers has been the top prospect, impressing scouts with her all-round game. She can score from anywhere on the court or her incredible passing ability, but Bueckers has been the total package.  It’s no wonder she’s been the presumptive No. 1 pick for so long. However, lately, the story has changed a bit, adding some curveballs to what we believed was a done deal.

A bold new suggestion has set tongues wagging across the basketball world: what if Bueckers doesn’t end up with Dallas after all? Instead, could she make her way to the Seattle Storm? It’s a surprising twist, especially given that Dallas is still the frontrunner. National reporter Gary Striewski shared his thoughts, making it clear that while the idea has gained some traction, he’s not convinced it’s even possible.

Gary on ESPN said, “The number two overall pick—can they somehow package something together with Dallas to get PA to secure the number one overall pick to draft Paige? I don’t get how that’s going to happen. Yes, you’re getting close to the gate, but the gate is locked, in my opinion. The gate is locked; you’re not gaining access. There’s a moat around this gate, alligators in the moat. It’s Paige Bueckers’ number one overall, and I don’t see why Dallas would be that big of a turnoff for her to say, I don’t want to play in Dallas. I’d rather play in Seattle. Otherwise, I’m going back for a sixth season to UConn.”

Despite Striewski’s skepticism, the idea that Bueckers could end up in Seattle has gained some momentum. This is mainly due to the Storm’s recent trade for the No. 2 pick in the draft. With that pick now in their hands, Seattle has a chance—albeit a slim one—to try and swing a deal for the top pick, potentially setting up a draft-day drama. If Bueckers decides against playing for Dallas, Seattle might just become her next destination. 

The Dallas Wings, though, have had their fair share of struggles since moving to Texas in 2016. Dallas has seen multiple coaching changes and player support issues of late, and some wondering if it remains the best place for prospects like Bueckers. While Dallas certainly has the No. 1 pick, they’ve also dealt with their own set of challenges. Could Bueckers be seeking a new beginnings in a more stable environment? 

Seattle, with its championship pedigree and star studded roster, could provide just that. It’s no wonder that some are speculating that Bueckers could prefer to join the Storm instead. For now, Bueckers’ future still looks tied to Dallas, but things can change in an instant. 

Could Paige Bueckers be on her way to Seattle?

So, what would it take for Paige Bueckers to end up in Seattle instead of Dallas? Seattle’s recent acquisition of the No. 2 pick has fueled lots of discussion about what exactly a trade will look like. Certainly, there are slim chances of this happening. But there are some reasons as to why the Storm might be able to pull off such a move.

First off, Seattle’s history speaks for itself. They have a long history of success with multiple championships. A team with such a rich history could be so very appealing for Bueckers. Also, given that WNBA legend and Uconn Alum Sue Bird is on the ownership group now, Seattle may actually feel even more like an ideal destination for her. Combine that with the Storm’s current assets, and suddenly, the idea of landing Bueckers doesn’t seem entirely out of the question.

But Dallas remains at the top of the draft standings and intends to use its first overall selection on Bueckers. The Wings are the favorite to land the UConn star. And unless Seattle offers a truly extraordinary package—one that blows Dallas away—it’s hard to see them parting with the top pick. Plus, Bueckers has made it clear that she intends to enter the 2025 draft, and there’s been no public indication that she would be unhappy playing for Dallas. The Wings still appear likely to be the team that drafts her until she says otherwise.

While it’s fun to imagine the possibility of Paige Bueckers playing for the Seattle Storm, the reality is that Dallas remains the most likely destination for the UConn guard. As draft day approaches, it’s still almost certain that Bueckers will be calling Dallas home for her rookie season. However, in the unpredictable world of sports, things can change in an instant, and we’ll just have to wait and see what unfolds.