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On Thursday morning, news emerged that Paige Bueckers inked an NIL deal with the new "Unrivaled" league. Following this big splash, fans rushed to social media to praise the UConn guard.
Heading into her final year of college, Bueckers is expected to be one of the top players in women's basketball. With this new deal, she'll also be one of the highest earners. According to On3, Bueckers' NIL valuation now sits at an impressive one million dollars.
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After this news hit social media, WNBA fans flooded the comment section to applaud Paige Bueckers for her new deal.
Other fans boasted about how they can't wait to see her in the WNBA in 2025.
"She’s my favorite women’s ball player can’t wait for her to get to the league," one fan said.
"WNBA is about to get their LeBron (Juju is Jordan)," another fan said.
"VALKYRIE!," Said one fan.
The Unrivaled League is a 3-on-3 women's basketball league founded by current WNBA players Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. It is set to begin in January of 2025.
As for Bueckers, she is getting ready to get one more college season under her belt before entering the pro ranks. Last year at UConn, she averaged 21.9 points, 5.2 rebounds and 3.8 assists across 39 games.
Paige Bueckers to make history next season
Aside from the Unrivaled League, one of the numerous brands Paige Bueckers has an NIL deal with is Nike. With this partnership, the UConn star is set to make history next season.
Earlier this week, it was announced that Nike is going to give Bueckers her own player-exclusive shoe. When it happens, she will be the first college player to receive such treatment. Bueckers' shoe is reportedly slated to hit the shelves in the middle of September and will cost around $120.
Aside from Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, Paige Bueckers is another player who has helped increase the popularity of women's basketball. Before she tore her Achilles in 2022, she was in the conversation for best player in the NCAA.
Bueckers could have turned pro this year but opted to utilize her final year of eligibility. Now, she can continue to refine her game as she gets ready to make the jump to the WNBA. As one of the most skilled players in women's college basketball, Bueckers is expected to be the No. 1 pick in the 2025 draft.
