The connection between Bird and Bueckers goes beyond shared school colors. Bird has served as a mentor since Bueckers’ college days, offering advice and perspective during critical moments.<\/p>\n
![\"Paige](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/1755702131_52_paige-bueckers.jpg\")
\nPaige Bueckers #5 of the Dallas Wings looks on against the Indiana Fever during the third quarter at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on August 12, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
\nPaige Bueckers #5 of the Dallas Wings looks on against the Indiana Fever during the third quarter at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on August 12, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.
\nPhoto by Justin Casterline\/Getty Images<\/p>\n
After UConn lost the 2022 NCAA title game, Bird joined other program greats in consoling the Huskies and emphasized that heartbreak is part of every champion’s journey.<\/p>\n
“She’s just been there every single time I reached out with questions,” Bueckers said. “She has been a huge part of my development\u2014not just as a player, but as a person.”<\/p>\n
Read more: WNBA Punishes Fever’s Sophie Cunningham Over Paige Bueckers Comments<\/a><\/p>\n Bird retired in 2022 as the WNBA’s all-time assists leader after a career that included four championships, five Olympic gold medals, and 13 All-Star selections. She has praised Bueckers’ poise, versatility, and ability to impact games on both ends of the floor, often pointing to her as a natural successor in the line of elite UConn guards.<\/p>\n As Bueckers has transitioned to the WNBA, Bird has publicly acknowledged the challenges but expressed confidence that she has the skill and mentality to succeed.<\/p>\n Both players’ careers were shaped at UConn, where Bird won two national championships and helped establish the program’s dynasty. Bueckers has said Bird’s example was part of her decision to play in Storrs, calling her the blueprint for the career she envisioned.<\/p>\n