Two decades before Paige Bueckers became a star at UConn, Sue Bird dominated the court, striking fear into opponents as she led the Huskies in the early 2000s. Much like Bueckers, Bird collected numerous accolades, including the Nancy Lieberman Award and All-American honors. However, one major difference remains Bird won two NCAA championships, while Bueckers is still chasing her first.
“There are a lot of great players who’ve had amazing careers but never won a national championship or even reached a Final Four,” Bird told ESPN’s Alexa Philippou. “I do think it’s the ultimate tiebreaker.”
Bird’s championships helped spark an era of dominance for UConn, setting the stage for icons like Diana Taurasi, Maya Moore, Tina Charles, and Breanna Stewart to continue the Huskies’ legacy. Fans now hope Bueckers will be the next leader to bring an NCAA title back to Storrs. Despite the weight of expectations, she isn’t backing down.
“If you’re going to shy away from it and don’t want that pressure, then just don’t come to UConn,” Bueckers told ESPN.
While a championship has eluded her so far, Bueckers still has time to make her mark. No. 2 UConn faces No. 3 Oklahoma this Sunday in the Sweet 16, with a Final Four berth within reach.
Sue Bird Named Finalist for 2025 Basketball Hall of Fame
It was only a matter of time before a player of Sue Bird’s caliber earned consideration for basketball’s highest honor.
At guard, from UConn, a Class of 2025 Finalist, Sue Bird. #25HoopClass pic.twitter.com/87qrPjgTVA
— Basketball HOF (@Hoophall) February 14, 2025
Last month, Bird was named a finalist for the 2025 Basketball Hall of Fame class, joining legends like Maya Moore, Sylvia Fowles, Carmelo Anthony, and Dwight Howard. The official inductees will be announced on April 5 during the NCAA Final Four.
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