Paige Bueckers, the former UConn star, is making waves in the WNBA just two seasons into her career.
Her impressive rookie season saw her averaging 19.2 points, 5.4 assists, and 3.9 rebounds a game. She’s continuing that form this season in Dallas.
Bueckers’ Impact on the Dallas Wings
The Dallas Wings have started the season with a 5-3 record, and have beaten championship contenders like the New York Liberty and reigning champion Las Vegas Aces. Bueckers, alongside her former UConn teammate Azzi Fudd, has been instrumental in their wins. Both Bueckers and Fudd recently scored 24 points each against the Liberty, with Fudd making her first WNBA start.
Debut Jersey Auction Price Stuns Bueckers
Bueckers’ rise in the WNBA has made her memorabilia highly valuable, and her debut jersey for the Dallas Wings recently fetched a staggering price at auction.
The item sold for nearly $65,000. “That’s insane to me,” Bueckers said in reaction to the price.
Bueckers also acknowledged the growing popularity and respect for women’s sports. “You can see the rise in popularity and growth and respect [in women’s sports]. … just to be a part of the rise right now, you are extremely grateful,” she stated.
In a light-hearted moment, Bueckers quipped, “I wouldn’t even pay $10 for my own jersey.”
Jerseys as Keepsakes and Investments
Bueckers realises she can currently obtain a Wings jersey from each game. She may later want her debut jersey as a keepsake.
It was noted that some professional athletes sometimes have to buy their own memorabilia from others who acquired them at games, auctions, or through other sellers.
Another trend is the jersey swap, common in the NBA and NFL, where athletes exchange jerseys after games. Instead of focusing on her own jerseys, Bueckers could collect opposing players’ jerseys as an investment.
The Dallas Wings are currently 5-3 in the Western Conference, placing them third behind the Minnesota Lynx and Golden State Valkyries.
The Dallas Wings will play against the Seattle Storm at 8 p.m. ET on Monday.