Nika Muhl writes heartwarming birthday message for ‘twin’ Paige Bueckers: "Really wish I could hug you rn"

Nika Muhl called Paige Bueckers her “twin” following UConn’s 87-58 win against Marquette on Feb. 5. Bueckers lit up the Huskies’ opponents with 30 points behind 6-for-9 shooting from behind the arc. Muhl had nine assists, seven rebounds and five steals.

A few months later, Muhl jumped to the WNBA where she was drafted by the Seattle Storm in the second round. Bueckers decided to stay in college, hoping to win an NCAA championship before turning pro.

Although they are no longer teammates, the two have remained close friends. On Sunday, the Croatian wrote on Instagram:

“Really wish I could hug you rn twin”

Nika Muhl's birthday message to former UConn teammate Paige Bueckers. [photo: @nika.muhl/IG]

Muhl wrote the dedication to celebrate Bueckers’ 23rd birthday. She added this message in her next story:

“I got your back always and forever.”

Muhl's next Instagram message to Bueckers. [photo: @nika.muhl/IG]

The Seattle Storm guard and Bueckers played together for three seasons for the Huskies under coach Geno Auriemma. They formed a bond off the court as they were in isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The chemistry between the two translated into games.

Bueckers was the explosive superstar while Muhl was the gritty role player. They were perfect complements of each other in Auriemma’s system.

---

Paige Bueckers will join Nika Muhl in the WNBA next season

After deciding to play her fifth collegiate season, Paige Bueckers will enter the WNBA next season. Bueckers is considered the favorite to become the No. 1 pick in the 2025 draft. She will join her “twin” Nika Muhl in the pros when that time comes.

The LA Sparks, Dallas Wings, Chicago Sky and Washington Mystics are the teams looking to win the lottery draft. Bueckers likely goes to the team that gets the opportunity to pick first. She and Muhl will be opponents in the WNBA.

The Seattle Storm, Nika Muhl’s team, will pick No. 9 in the draft. Paige Bueckers isn’t going to be there when the Storm gets their first chance to draft from the pool.