PORTLAND, Ore. — The group of young girls standing on the front row of Moda Center across the court from the biggest star in the gym repeatedly called out Paige Bueckers’ name, catching her attention.
They persistently chanted — “PAIGE, PAIGE, PAIGE, PAIGE” — until UConn guard KK Arnold noticed and suggested Bueckers take a picture with them. Bueckers, feeling shy, made her way over as fans eagerly sought autographs and she graciously obliged.
Paige Bueckers took time to sign some autographs following UConn’s win ✍️@UConnWBB | @paigebueckers1 pic.twitter.com/rsR8huYSnu
— The Athletic (@TheAthletic) April 2, 2024
Bueckers stands out among Geno Auriemma’s superstars for her unique qualities, he mentioned earlier. The public adores her, as seen on Monday night when she dominated against USC in the Elite Eight, scoring 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 6 assists to lead UConn to the Final Four for the 23rd time and the third time in four years.
She often keeps her emotions bottled up, making it hard for Auriemma to read her. But on Monday night, Bueckers let her emotions show as she celebrated with her teammates after a remarkable victory.