UConn guard Paige Bueckers is the perfect example of “we over me.” The women’s college basketball star cares more about her teammates than herself.
It is a rather admirable attitude that was on full display prior to the Huskies’ Final Four game in Cleveland.
Head coach Geno Auriemma surprised Bueckers with the news that she has been named a First Team All-American by the WBCA. She was not overly excited and kept a straight face.
And then Auriemma turned to Aaliyah Edwards to share the same news.
Bueckers’ demeanor immediately switched. She mobbed her teammate, who has been with her in Storrs since the start, and could not have been more excited for Edwards.
It is remarkable how a 42-second clip can say so much about a person’s character. Bueckers was thrilled that Edwards finally got the recognition that she deserves. More than she was for her own accolades.
Edwards is averaging 17.6 points, 9.3 rebounds, 2.0 assists, 1.6 steals and 1.0 blocks this season. The 6-foot-3 forward has made 59.5% of her shots and played a crucial role in UConn’s success this year. Although it doesn’t count toward regular season honors, her performance during the NCAA Tournament is a big reason why the Huskies are playing for a shot at the national championship.
Bueckers, a more prominent household name, is averaging 22.0 points, 5.9 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 2.3 steals and 1.4 blocks this year. She is hitting 53.4% of her shots and 41.8% from three. It was an obvious decision to name her as a First Team All-American, again, and it is a safe bet that she’ll receive that honor during her senior season next year.
However, Paige Bueckers cared more about Edwards’ recognition than her own, which is a testament to who she is beyond the court.