After a phenomenal run that saw her lead the UConn Huskies to their first NCAA Women’s National Championship in nearly a decade, Paige Bueckers has seamlessly carried her momentum into the professional ranks. The Dallas Wings’ top draft pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft has captured the nation’s attention—and now, her hometown is joining the celebration in an unforgettable way.
Hopkins to Temporarily Become “Paige Bueckers, Minnesota”
As Bueckers prepares to make her official WNBA debut on May 16, her hometown of Hopkins, Minnesota, has decided to pay tribute by renaming the city “Paige Bueckers, Minnesota” for the day. The gesture will coincide with her first regular-season game, which will see her Dallas Wings take on the Minnesota Lynx.
Bueckers Reacts to the Shocking News
The announcement took Bueckers by surprise when it first surfaced earlier in May. “I didn't believe it at first,” she admitted during a press conference held on May 13. “I thought it was fake news. There's a lot of fake news that circles around on the internet. So, you never know what to trust.”
Once she realized the news was real, the young star was filled with gratitude. “It's also surreal and I don't know, it's crazy to me that they would name the whole city after me,” she added. “But just to be able to give back to that whole city who's given me so much... For them to show love like that I appreciate it for sure."
Hometown Watch Party Adds to the Celebration
The city of Hopkins isn’t stopping at the honorary name change. Local officials are also organizing a community watch party to celebrate Bueckers’ professional debut and cheer her on from afar. A city-issued release invited residents to join in the festivities:
"Whether you're a lifelong fan or new to the game, it's the perfect opportunity to support Hopkins alumna Paige Bueckers as she takes the court for the Wings. Don't miss out on this exciting event—gather your friends and enjoy a night of basketball, great food, and community spirit!"
The event is designed to highlight Bueckers' journey from local hero to national star while fostering pride and unity among residents.
Early Preseason Success Signals Bright Future
If her preseason performance is any indication, Bueckers appears more than ready for the professional stage. In just two exhibition games, she’s averaged 12.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.5 steals, while shooting a blazing 66.6% from the floor and 60% from beyond the arc.
Circle Your Calendars: Debut Set for May 16
Bueckers’ much-anticipated WNBA debut is scheduled for Friday, May 16, when the Dallas Wings host the Minnesota Lynx at College Park Center in Arlington, Texas. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. ET, and the game will be nationally televised on ION.
Facing her home-state team in her first official WNBA appearance makes the occasion even more poignant—offering fans a full-circle moment as one of Minnesota’s finest begins her pro career on the national stage.