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Paige Bueckers finally got the ending she-and the UConn faithful-had been waiting for.
After five years marked by brilliance, setbacks, and perseverance, Bueckers walked off the court for the last time in a Huskies jersey as a national champion. The final moments of UConn's dominant win over South Carolina in the 2025 title game were emotional. With just under two minutes left and the outcome decided, Bueckers hugged Geno Auriemma with tears in her eyes, her career complete in the one way it had always been missing.
The confetti hadn't even settled before the next chapter came into focus. Bueckers declared for the WNBA Draft and instantly became one of the league's most anticipated newcomers-because there's someone waiting for her there.
Caitlin Clark.
From college icons to pro rivals: Bueckers and Clark are on a collision course
Clark wrapped up her rookie year in the WNBA last season, lighting it up with the Indiana Fever and earning Rookie of the Year honors after averaging over 21 points and nearly 7 assists per game. The league welcomed her with open arms-and now Bueckers, with a championship in her back pocket, is coming to challenge that spotlight.
There's no real "ing of the torch" here. These two were always in the same conversation, even if they never met on the national championship stage. Their styles couldn't be more different-Clark's deep shooting range and electric playmaking vs. Bueckers' smooth, efficient dominance. But together, they might give the WNBA the kind of rivalry it's been waiting for.
And let's not overlook what Bueckers just did. A 40-point explosion in the Sweet Sixteen. A record-breaking 477 NCAA tournament points, suring Maya Moore. A tournament run that felt inevitable once it started rolling.
"She's as competitive as anyone I've ever coached," Auriemma told ESPN after the win. "And she earned this moment."
Now she's headed to the pros not just with hype-but with hardware.
If last season belonged to Clark, the next one might be about something bigger: Paige Bueckers isn't just coming for the spotlight-she's coming for the crown.