There is no denying that Paige Bueckers is among the elites of her generation. Despite her injury-stricken career, the 2021 National Player of the Year has been a valuable asset for Geno Auriemma and the UConn Huskies.

She proved it resoundingly after leading the Huskies to their 22nd Big East Tournament title on Monday. Consequently, her contributions were thoroughly recognized as she bagged the most prestigious Big East honor.

A year after missing out on the tournament due to her ACL tear, Paige Bueckers has made an emphatic return. The 6 ft point guard has been awarded as the tournament’s most outstanding player.

The 22-year-old has been the driving force behind the team’s overall success this season.

Moreover, she has risen to the occasion and delivered in the absence of key players like Azzi Fudd and Caroline Ducharme.

In addition to this, the Huskies are also without senior forward Aaliyah Edwards, who was forced to sit out the last two games because of her nose injury.

Evidently, Buckers had a tremendous run in the Big East tournament.

The 6 ft guard scored at an average of 27.7 points per game along with grabbing 8.3 rebounds. In addition to this, she showed immaculate defensive skills by averaging four blocks per game in the tournament.

Also, hardly anyone would argue that her field goal percentage of above 50% isn’t worth distinguishing.

Soon after the game ended, the impactful UConn No.5 expressed her thoughts on her comeback.

Paige Bueckers makes her coach proud

An elated Paige Bueckers had a delightful interaction with the media in her post-game press address. She said, “A year ago I would have done anything to be in basketball shoes instead of streetwear and to be playing in the most important month of basketball.

I wanted to embrace it and have fun. I’m extremely grateful and happy to be playing basketball.”

Further, head coach Auriemma was also ecstatic about his team’s performance. He proudly expressed, “I don’t think any of [the other titles] were quite as challenging for this team and these kids.”

The impact that Paige Bueckers has had on UConn is unparalleled. Now that she has decided to stay for another year should bring further joy for the Huskies fans. Also, it’s going to be exciting for her followers to witness what more she has to offer.

What are your thoughts on Paige Bueckers’ accomplishments? Tell us more in the comments section.