April 14, 2025 — Just hours before her name is expected to be called as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, Paige Bueckers is making headlines off the court—with a bold move that signals a new era in women’s basketball.

Sources close to the situation confirm that Bueckers is finalizing a three-year deal with Unrivaled, the new player-founded professional basketball league set to launch its inaugural season in 2025. This deal positions her not just as a rising WNBA star, but as a future leader in the business and culture of the sport.

A Game-Changing Partnership

Founded by WNBA superstars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, Unrivaled is a first-of-its-kind, offseason women’s basketball league designed to prioritize player compensation, branding, and empowerment. Set to be hosted in Miami, the league will feature a unique format focused on 3-on-3 and 1-on-1 competition, played in a high-energy, fan-first environment.

By signing with Unrivaled, Bueckers becomes the first projected No. 1 WNBA draft pick to officially commit to competing in the league. The move is seen as a powerful statement—not just about her belief in the league’s mission, but about the direction she wants to take her career.

“Paige is not just playing the game. She’s shaping the future of it,” said a league source.

Why It Matters

Paige Bueckers, widely regarded as one of the most talented guards of her generation, has captured national attention since her freshman year at UConn. After overcoming a major knee injury and leading the Huskies with poise, grit, and elite playmaking, she is now poised to be the centerpiece of the 2025 WNBA rookie class.

But her commitment to Unrivaled shows she’s not just focused on the traditional path. She’s looking to expand her impact—on the court, in media, and as a businesswoman.

The three-year agreement gives her flexibility to compete year-round while also building her brand in a player-first environment. Unlike overseas leagues, which require months of international travel, Unrivaled keeps players stateside and offers enhanced visibility, sponsorship opportunities, and revenue-sharing potential.

The Bigger Picture: Player Empowerment

Bueckers’ deal reflects a growing movement within women’s sports toward player autonomy and control. More athletes are seeking alternative options that respect their schedules, maximize earning potential, and align with their personal values.

Unrivaled’s mission is clear: to create a sustainable, high-level league where the top talent can stay on U.S. soil, get paid fairly, and engage with fans in new, dynamic ways. With big names like Stewart, Collier, and now Bueckers involved, the league is quickly gaining traction.

What’s Next for Bueckers

First up: the 2025 WNBA Draft, where Bueckers is expected to go No. 1 overall to the Indiana Fever or another top franchise. Her WNBA rookie season will officially begin in May, but her Unrivaled debut is anticipated for late fall, following the conclusion of the WNBA season.

For fans, this means one thing: we’re going to see a lot more of Paige Bueckers. And not just during summer WNBA action—but year-round, in highlight-packed matchups that push the sport forward.

Conclusion: A Star on the Rise—and in Control

With this strategic move, Paige Bueckers isn’t just entering the professional basketball world—she’s helping transform it. The decision to join Unrivaled underscores her vision for a new generation of athletes: one where talent, voice, and business acumen walk hand in hand.

As she steps into her professional era, one thing is clear—Paige is ready to lead both on and off the court.

📺 Watch Paige Bueckers at the 2025 WNBA Draft
🗓 April 14, 7:30 PM ET
📍 Live on ESPN