UConn’s Paige Bueckers, regarded as one of the leading prospects for the forthcoming WNBA Draft, has become the focus of speculation about her career ahead.
Although she is highly favored to be the top selection, speculation indicates that Bueckers may not want to join the Dallas Wings and may instead favor playing for the Los Angeles Sparks.
These reports are making comparisons to the notorious 2004 NFL Draft, during which Eli Manning notoriously declined to play for the San Diego Chargers, leading to a trade to the New York Giants.
During a January 8 segment on the Hoffman Women’s Sports Show, WNBA reporter Howard Megdal discussed Bueckers’ circumstances. He observed that insiders throughout the league think she might emulate Eli Manning, working to facilitate a departure from Dallas.
Similar to how Manning arranged his trade after being selected by the Chargers, basketball enthusiasts are wondering if Bueckers will pursue a trade to a team that better fits her interests.
Worries regarding the Dallas Wings
A main factor in Bueckers’ hesitance regarding the Wings might be their recent difficulties. Even with her exceptional skill, the Wings ended the last season with a poor 9-31 record.
The team’s instability and shallow roster might not create an attractive atmosphere for a player of Bueckers’ quality. Moreover, the presence of Arike Ogunbowale, a leading star in the league, may hinder a newcomer from taking on the franchise leader position.
Ogunbowale, a four-time All-Star and past scoring champion, has been a key player for the Wings since her 2019 draft. Although Ogunbowale is a vital contributor, her control on the court may restrict Bueckers’ chances to mold the team according to her vision.
In contrast to the majority of WNBA prospects, Bueckers possesses considerable leverage. Owing to injuries and the COVID-19 season, she retains one additional year of college eligibility. This distinct situation allows her the option to either skip the draft altogether or notify the Wings of her decision not to play for them, compelling the team to consider trade possibilities for the first overall selection.
Since the Wings relocated to Dallas in 2017, they have struggled to achieve stability. They have not achieved lasting success and have made coaching changes more often than most would prefer. Although they had a strong performance in 2023 by winning their first-round playoff series, their lack of consistency remains disappointing.
Currently, the scenario stays uncertain. Only Paige Bueckers and her closest associates are aware of her genuine intentions. With the WNBA Draft nearing, the basketball community will keenly observe whether Bueckers will mimic Eli Manning’s strategy and negotiate her future in the league, or if she’ll embrace her draft spot with the Wings.
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