Paige Bueckers Dominates UNC In UConn Win
If UConn fans had any reservations about how their star player was performing in 2024-25, they were removed Friday, when UConn toppled UNC 69-58. The Huskies hadn't been challenged early in the season, opening things with an 86-32 thumping of Boston University, then destroying South Florida 86-49.
Their best player, and presumed top pick in the WNBA Draft next April, Paige Bueckers, had not exactly put on a show in those blowout performances. Against the Terriers, she had 13 points in 24 minutes, and the following game, put up 22 points in 28 minutes. Given that she didn't dominate in easy wins, there had to be some concern going into a game against number 14 ranked North Carolina.
Bueckers had her best game against UConn's toughest opponent this season. She had 29 points in 37 minutes, on 12 of 21 shooting (4 of 8 behind the arc). She also added 4 rebounds and 4 assists. Tougher opponents mean more minutes for the senior guard, and the team leaning more heavily on her scoring ability.
UConn played tough defense, and moved the ball effectively against the Tar Heels. Bueckers performance put the rest of the NCAA on notice. The bigger the game, the bigger performance that can be expected. This does not bode well for sixth-ranked Notre Dame on December 12, eighth-ranked Iowa State on December 17, or the matchup fans are salivating for, third-ranked USC on December 21.
A showdown between Bueckers and the Trojans scoring machine Juju Watkins will be hyped up to no end, and should not disappoint. This past April, in the Elite 8, the two faced off for an epic matchup. Bueckers stat line was 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists in 40 minutes. Watkins scored 29 points with 10 rebounds in 39 minutes. Fans will no doubt be watching the matchup on the edge of their seats, hoping the two future WNBA Hall of Famers trade baskets the entire game. This early Christmas present can't get here soon enough.