BREAKING: @paigebueckers1 of @UConnWBB is the first freshman to be named The Associated Press women’s basketball player of the year.
Story by @dougfeinberg >>https://t.co/LYb5ucOBBL pic.twitter.com/Jiq59OmSXJ
— AP Top 25 (@AP_Top25) March 31, 2021
Paige Bueckers has had a historic season with UConn Women’s Basketball, and it’s not over yet. With the team heading into their 13th consecutive Final Four, the freshman star has just been named Women’s Player of the Year by the Associated Press. She’s officially the first freshman to ever win that honor.
“It’s amazing, surreal for people to think of me that highly and to be in that position as a freshman,” Bueckers told AP. “To get this award, I’m extremely humbled and grateful.” The 19-year-old learned she won the award on Monday, the same day she led her team to an Elite Eight victory over defending national champions Baylor. (Bueckers scored 28 points.) When UConn coach Geno Auriemma presented her with the award, Bueckers broke down in tears.
“A lot has happened over the past year, things that could bring people down,” Bueckers said in the AP interview. “To get a reward and find something positive in these times, you cherish them . . . to get that award with [my team and coaches] around me makes you be so grateful for the position I’m in.”
Bueckers has already racked up a laundry list of accomplishments in just her first season as a Huskie, leading her team with an eye-popping 20.1 points, 5.9 assists, and 2.3 steals per game. She already holds the UConn record for most assists in a game with 14, and she’s not likely to slow down. Already, Bueckers has earned the most outstanding player award for the River Walk region in this year’s NCAA Tournament. Next up: facing off against No. 3-ranked Arizona on Saturday. With Bueckers on the floor, it’s a must watch.