Moments after UConn’s dominant 85-51 win over top-seeded UCLA in the Final Four, senior guard Paige Bueckers gathered her teammates in the locker room for a message that was equal parts fire and focus.
With just one game left between the Huskies and a national title, Bueckers reminded her squad of what’s at stake and what it will take to finish the job.
“I still think we got a whole ‘nother level to tap into, and I think that’s what we save it for,” Bueckers said. “We have 40 minutes to give everything we have in our entire souls and bodies.”
It wasn’t just a motivational speech it was a rallying cry from a leader who’s been through adversity, injuries, and high expectations, and who now stands one step away from college basketball glory. While Bueckers had a relatively quiet night by her standards (16 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals), her presence and poise were undeniable.
UConn’s depth was on full display in the win, with freshman Sarah Strong and senior Azzi Fudd combining for 41 points. But in the locker room, the spotlight shifted back to the heart and voice of this team Bueckers.
“We don’t need any extra incentive,” she said, brushing aside their earlier season win over South Carolina. “It’s zero-zero, the record’s zero-zero, and we’re both trying to go 1-0.”
Her words captured the mindset of a team that isn’t just chasing another banner they’re chasing legacy. And if Bueckers has anything to say about it, they’ll leave it all on the floor Sunday against South Carolina.
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