Paige Bueckers steps up to take charge of UConn's summer training amid Nika Muhl and Aaliyah Edwards' WNBA transition: "It's all on me"

Paige Bueckers is all set to lead the UConn Huskies for another season. After coming close to the Final Four last season, the Huskies will be hoping for a championship in 2025.

However, it is going to be slightly different for Bueckers since she will be without her trusted teammates, Aaliyah Edwards and Nika Muhl. The three formed the core last season that helped UConn win games despite struggling with an injury-ridden roster.

Speaking on her changed role for the upcoming season, Paige Bueckers said:

"It's crazy. Because I feel like I don't have Nika, I don't have Aaliyah. So, it's really all on me. And it's mostly my responsibility. Obviously Aubrey, Azzi and other upperclassmen but I'm the only one on the court right now. So, I'm taking that responsibility and I'm doing it with pride.

I'm making sure that I'm leading these young guys, being a voice for them, leading them, teaching, communicating. And also leading by example in what I do on the court and off the court."

Aaliyah Edwards was selected No. 3 overall by the Washington Mystics in the 2024 WNBA draft. Nika Muhl, the No. 14 pick, is now in Seattle playing for the Storm.

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Paige Bueckers shares her goals for the 2024-25 season

Previously, Paige Bueckers had hinted that this could be her final season at Storrs. Although she is considered one of the best UConn players, winning a championship will help her solidify her name among the greats.

With the pressure of a title win, Paige is set to have a different approach to the game.

“I think just being more assertive, being more aggressive, not being passive,” she said (via CT Insider). “Which is not equal to ‘I'm not passing anymore.’ I love to pass but just looking for my shot, creating for others.

“I’ve been a pass-first, unselfish player, but being a killer and being unselfish; it doesn't have to be one or the other. Like it can be both. And that's how I've gotten here. That's how I've been. But it's just more killer, more aggressive, more assertive and then the unselfish things can happen after that.”

Paige Bueckers is projected to be a No.1 pick in the 2025 WNBA pick. The final results depend on her having a healthy and successful season.

What do you think are Paige Bueckers' chances in the upcoming season? Let us know in the comment section below.