Following a momentous announcement made during senior night ceremonies at Gampel Pavilion on Friday night, UConn star Paige Bueckers and coach Geno Auriemma have revealed their plans to return to the school for the upcoming season.
Despite being a senior academically, Bueckers electrified the crowd by disclosing that she will return for another season, stating, 'Unfortunately, this will not be my last senior night here.' This declaration was met with resounding applause from the thousands of fans in attendance. The 69-year-old coaching legend, Auriemma, then playfully confirmed that he, too, would be back next season, quipping, 'Until Paige announced that she's coming back. Yeah, I'll be back.'
Bueckers, who was named the national player of the year as a freshman, has faced various challenges during her collegiate career, including a tibial plateau fracture and a torn ACL. Despite these setbacks, she expressed her deep affection for UConn and her desire for a more typical year within the program.
The standout player shared, “I love playing here; I love being here. I love my teammates. I love my coaches.' Bueckers' decision to return was further fueled by her wish to spend more time with her teammates, coaches, and within the program.
Additionally, Aaliyah Edwards, Nika Muhl, and Aubrey Griffin were also honored during the ceremony. Edwards and Bueckers are expected to be high first-round picks if they opt to enter the WNBA draft. Griffin, who recently suffered an ACL injury, similarly announced her decision to return for another season.
While Bueckers has two remaining years of eligibility, Edwards, Muhl, and Griffin have one. The international players, Muhl from Croatia and Edwards from Canada, have faced limitations on earning NIL money while in college. Auriemma acknowledged that he would be surprised if Muhl or Edwards choose to come back for an additional year.
The Huskies have faced stiff competition this season, including losses to top teams like North Carolina State, UCLA, and South Carolina. Despite these challenges, Bueckers remains resolute in her pursuit of a national championship this season. With four regular-season games remaining, the team continues to strive for a successful finish.
The UConn women's basketball team currently holds a 22-5 overall record and a perfect 14-0 record in the Big East conference. Their upcoming games include matchups against Creighton and Villanova as they push towards their postseason goals.
