Paige Bueckers’s Open Letter to the UConn Huskies, Supporters, and the Whole Huskies Community
To the UConn Family,
As I sit down to write this letter, I find myself overcome with gratitude and emotion. Without all of your love, support, and unshakable belief, my adventure at the University of Connecticut would not have been possible. It has been nothing short of remarkable. I felt I was entering something unique as soon as I set foot on campus—a tradition, a legacy, a family.
You have been my sisters, my fiercest practice rivals, and my closest allies on the court, teammates. I will always cherish the memories we have created together, including the long days spent in the gym, the conflicts we have engaged in, and the titles we have pursued. We have constantly challenged one another to improve, and I am immensely honored to have competed with some of the top athletes in the nation. I’m inspired by your commitment and enthusiasm, and I have no doubt that our relationship will endure long after we graduate from UConn.
I want to express my gratitude to Coach Geno Auriemma and the entire coaching staff for having faith in me, even when I had doubts. Your advice, harsh love, and insight have molded me as a person as well as a player. I’ve learned from you to always play with heart, to accept the pressure that comes with wearing a UConn uniform, and to demand excellence. I will always be thankful to you for teaching me things that I will carry with me for the rest of my life.
You have made every game feel like home, UConn basketball’s beating heart, the fans. Whether in the XL Center or Gampel Pavilion, your enthusiasm, vigor, and constant support have inspired us in ways you may never quite comprehend. You were there, supporting us, cheering us on, and believing in us—whether it was a game-winning three-pointer, a last-second defensive stand, or a devastating defeat. You have elevated this journey beyond basketball to one that is about family, pride, and community.
I want to express my gratitude to the UConn community for helping me become the person I am today. Beyond my wildest expectations, this university has provided me with chances, and I will use the skills I’ve learned here to the next stage of my life. I hope I have made you proud. The support and affection I have gotten from the students, faculty, and alumni has meant the world to me.
I will always be a Husky at heart as I look to the future, whether I’m playing for UConn on the court or taking on new challenges in my life. I will always be grateful and adore this program, this school, and this community for giving me more than I could ever ask for.
I sincerely appreciate it, UConn.
Paige Bueckers, a husky at heart