Paige Bueckers beams at the idea of playing in the same city as her favorite Kyrie Irving

Paige Bueckers was excited about joining the Dallas Wings for the 2025 WNBA season. As the No. 1 overall pick in this year's draft, she's expected to mark an era not only in Dallas but also in the league.

She was introduced as the top pick in the draft in a press conference held on Wednesday. She opened up about her expectations for the season while even receiving welcome gifts.

Bueckers will play in the same city as Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving, whom she calls one of her favorite players.

"He's been my favorite player since forever ... to be able to lean on and support ... just excited for Dallas itself ... great to be in the same city as him," Bueckers said.

Kyrie Irving, as Paige Bueckers, was selected with the No. 1 overall pick. Back in 2011, the Cleveland Cavaliers brought the Duke Blue Devils product with the top selection, starting a solid career that has seen him become one of the best players in his position.

14 years later, Bueckers was drafted by the Wings after a terrific four-year college career with the Huskies. The guard carries high expectations as she won't join a rebuilding team but a squad with established veterans such as Arike Ogunbowale and DiJonai Carrington. Irving has been a strong supporter of the WNBA and women's basketball in general. While he rehabs from an ACL injury, Irving will have time to watch Bueckers firsthand during her rookie season.

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Paige Bueckers shares first words as a Wings player

Paige Bueckers became a terrific addition to the Dallas Wings last week. Following the departure of Satou Sabally to the Phoenix Mercury and Natasha Howard to the Indiana Fever, the Wings looked weakened heading into the 2025 season. Besides the addition of Carrington, NaLyssa Smith and others, fans are excited to have Bueckers in Dallas.

During Wednesday's press conference, she shared her excitement about joining the squad.

Just being a part of a new family, a new city...Dallas is a great sports city...to be a part of something and build...really excited...just investing all of ourselves into Dallas."

The Wings start their preseason on May 2 against the Las Vegas Aces. Their regular season will begin on May 16 against the 2024 WNBA Finals runners-up Minnesota Lynx.