Paige Bueckers, the standout point guard for the University of Connecticut (UConn) Huskies, has been named the recipient of the 2025 Nancy Lieberman Award, solidifying her status as one of the elite players in women’s college basketball. This prestigious award, presented annually by the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, honors the nation’s top point guard who exhibits exceptional leadership, playmaking abilities, and ball-handling skills, attributes exemplified by Hall of Famer Nancy Lieberman.Bueckers’ journey to this accolade has been marked by remarkable performances and a steadfast commitment to excellence. In her redshirt senior season, she led the Huskies with an average of 18.6 points and 5.0 assists per game. Notably, she topped the national charts with an impressive 3.69 assist-to-turnover ratio, underscoring her efficiency and decision-making on the court. Her shooting efficiency was equally commendable, boasting a .534 field goal percentage, .408 from beyond the arc, and an .888 free-throw percentage. These statistics not only highlight her scoring prowess but also her ability to perform under pressure. Throughout the season, Bueckers consistently delivered standout performances, recording 20 or more points in 14 games. Her ability to elevate her game against top-tier opponents was evident, averaging 19.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game against ranked teams. A milestone moment came when she became the 14th player in UConn’s storied history to surpass 500 career assists, further cementing her legacy within the program. This is not Bueckers’ first encounter with the Nancy Lieberman Award. In 2021, she made history by becoming the first freshman to receive the honor, a testament to her immediate impact on the collegiate basketball scene. Her latest recognition places her alongside UConn legends such as Sue Bird, Diana Taurasi, Renee Montgomery, and Moriah Jefferson, who have collectively secured the award nine times for the Huskies. Bueckers’ influence extends beyond individual accolades. Her leadership has been instrumental in guiding UConn through a challenging schedule, culminating in a significant presence in the NCAA Tournament. Her performances have not only propelled the Huskies to success but have also elevated her standing as a top prospect for the upcoming WNBA draft. Analysts have noted that her exceptional play during the tournament has solidified her position as a consensus number one pick, reflecting her readiness to transition to the professional level. The announcement of Bueckers receiving the Nancy Lieberman Award comes on the heels of her being named a finalist for the 2025 John Wooden Award, which recognizes the most outstanding player in college basketball. Sharing this distinction with other top talents, Bueckers’ consistent excellence has kept her at the forefront of national recognition throughout her collegiate career. As Bueckers prepares to conclude her collegiate journey, her legacy at UConn is firmly established. Her combination of skill, leadership, and determination has not only brought her individual success but has also contributed significantly to the Huskies’ storied tradition. The 2025 Nancy Lieberman Award serves as a fitting tribute to her outstanding contributions to the sport and sets the stage for what promises to be a remarkable professional career.
