Paige Bueckers: A Game-Changer On and Off the Court
As one of the standout players on the University of Connecticut (UConn) women’s basketball team, Paige Bueckers has quickly become a household name. Recognized not just for her incredible skills on the court, she was deemed the third most valuable woman in college sports, with NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals surpassing $1.4 million even before her WNBA debut. Brands like Nike and Gatorade flocked to partner with her, showing just how influential she has become.
However, what’s equally impressive is how Paige uses her growing platform for the greater good. Let’s explore how she has leveraged her NIL deals to uplift her teammates and support minority creators.
Supporting Teammates and Minor Creators
Paige Bueckers exemplifies what it means to be a true teammate—both on and off the court. In her own words, “When I met with the agency, I told them my values. I talked about giving back, using the partnerships to do something bigger than myself.” This ethos is at the core of her approach; she’s adamant about involving her teammates whenever possible.
From being the first collegiate athlete to sign a deal with Gatorade to becoming DoorDash’s first athlete creative director, Bueckers has not only made waves in business but has also made thoughtful decisions that allow her to support those around her. Notably, she openly acknowledges the disparities in coverage and opportunities, aiming to raise awareness and launch minor content creators through her platform.
Her agent, Lindsay Kagawa Colas, adds depth to her mission, explaining that “the opportunity with Paige is about demonstrating what you can and should do with Power.” Each partnership aims for a ripple effect that supports everyone from grassroots athletes to professional players.
Aligning Partnerships with Social Causes
When Paige Bueckers dove into the NIL landscape, it was an entirely new frontier for college athletes. Many had never had the opportunity to earn from their likeness. However, Bueckers had clarity from the start: “I just want to work with people who have the right intentions.” This guiding principle helps her form partnerships that genuinely make a difference.
For example, during her negotiations with Chegg INC., she ensured that the company would support her pop-up markets in Connecticut. With Bose, she arranged for donations of their products to support initiatives aimed at young people of color. Furthermore, her collaborations with Good Sports and Gatorade saw her contribute $50,000 to aid victims of the California Wildfires.
In addition, Bueckers has directed approximately $65,000 in sports equipment donations to underserved youth programs through her NIL endeavors. Her philanthropic spirit extends further, with the establishment of the Paige Bueckers Foundation, where she champions the notion that “every kid deserves the opportunity to dream big.”
Investing in Women’s Sports for Lasting Change
Bueckers is not only transforming her immediate environment; she’s also investing in the future of women’s sports. She has become an equity partner in the women’s 3×3 basketball league, Unrivaled, founded by stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart. This positions her as the first NCAA athlete to hold equity in such a league, showcasing her commitment to fostering growth in women’s athletics.
Being an advisor for Overtime Select, a league designed for elite high school athletes, further amplifies her influence. Paige ensures that her former teammates can also partake in commercial activities, giving them visibility and fostering a sense of community.
A Vision for Change
Ultimately, Paige Bueckers aims to make a significant impact through her partnerships and endorsements. Her philosophy is simple yet powerful: “Make this world a better place.” Bueckers understands that with every signing, she has the potential to touch hundreds of lives.
As she embarks on a record-breaking rookie season in the WNBA, her focus remains sharp—transforming the arena of women’s sports for future generations while ensuring she uplifts those who have been part of her journey. Bueckers is committed to leaving the game in a better state than she found it, both for her own teammates and for the next wave of athletes to come.