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As Paige Bueckers prepares to take her first steps onto a WNBA court, fans are learning more about what keeps the No. 1 overall pick centered before the spotlight shines.
The Dallas Wings rookie recently shared her pre-game ritual, offering a glimpse into how she balances faith, focus and music on game day.
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“I read a couple of my devotionals. “God X Basketball” is one of the books that I read,” Buckers shared with Bustle’s inaugural Game Changers Issue. “I pray. And then listen to some music.”
The simple but powerful routine reflects Bueckers’ calm and collected approach to the game. It’s a tradition that helped guide her through a decorated college career at UConn and now into her new chapter with the Wings.
Paige Bueckers at the 2025 WNBA Draft at The Shed at Hudson Yards.Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Bueckers, 23, will make her highly anticipated WNBA debut on May 16 against the Minnesota Lynx—her favorite team growing up.
The matchup holds even deeper meaning, as her hometown of Hopkins, Minnesota, has officially renamed itself “Paige Bueckers, Minnesota” for the day in her honor. The announcement was shared by NCAA March Madness on X.
At UConn, Bueckers overcame injuries and setbacks to lead the Huskies to their record 12th national championship. Last season, she averaged 19.8 points, 4.7 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game.
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The Wings selected Bueckers first overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft earlier this month. She is expected to make an immediate impact, especially after the team parted ways with veteran Satou Sabally during the offseason.
Fans will get their first official look at the new rookie class during the team’s introductory press conference on Wednesday. Until then, Bueckers is sticking to her game day rhythm—faith, prayer and music—as she readies to write the next chapter in her already impressive basketball story.
Related: UConn’s First Post After Paige Bueckers Was Drafted Into the WNBA
