Paige Bueckers‘ arrival in Dallas has ignited excitement among basketball fans, not only for her exceptional talent but also due to her deep admiration for NBA star Kyrie Irving.
This connection transcends mere fandom, reflecting a shared journey of resilience and artistry on the court.
Bueckers, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings, has long cited Irving as a significant influence on her playing style.
She admires his ball-handling, finishing ability, and creative playmaking, elements she has incorporated into her own game. Her admiration was evident when she shared a video of Irving making free throws despite a torn ACL, captioning it, “The realest.”
Their connection deepened when Irving sent a congratulatory message to Bueckers after her draft selection. In the video, he praised her for overcoming challenges and expressed excitement about her joining the Dallas sports scene.
This gesture resonated with Bueckers, especially given Irving’s own recent injury struggles.
They have something in common
Both athletes share a history of overcoming adversity. Irving, despite being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2011 NBA Draft, faced scepticism early in his career.
Similarly, Bueckers returned from a significant ACL injury to lead UConn to a national title, demonstrating resilience and determination.
Their parallel paths highlight a mutual respect for each other’s journeys and a shared commitment to excellence.
As Bueckers embarks on her professional career in Dallas, her connection with Irving serves as a reminder of the power of mentorship and the impact of role models in shaping athletes’ careers.
For fans in Dallas, Bueckers‘ arrival offers a new chapter in the city’s basketball story, one that bridges the worlds of the NBA and WNBA and celebrates the enduring influence of icons like Kyrie Irving.
Read the full article here
