Paige Bueckers: Rookie of the year| On Jennifer Hudson show

Introduction

Paige Bueckers, the former UConn Huskies standout, has just capped off a phenomenal rookie season in the WNBA by being named the 2025 Rookie of the Year. The award was presented in a memorable and emotional moment on The Jennifer Hudson Show. In a signature surprise tunnel walk, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert revealed the honor. This recognition isn’t just about one great game or flash — it’s about consistency, leadership, and setting a standard that’s rare even for rookies. Here’s a look at how Paige earned this accolade, what moments defined her season, why the Jennifer Hudson presentation was so fitting, and what it might mean for her future.

Paige Bueckers’ rookie journey

Draft, expectations, and transition

• Drafted No. 1 overall by the Dallas Wings in the 2025 WNBA Draft, Paige entered the league with huge expectations.

• Her college career had already been decorated — with national championships, All-American honors, and general acclaim for her court vision, scoring ability, and leadership. Moving to the pro level, many wondered how she would adapt in terms of speed, physicality, and consistency.

Standout statistics

Paige did not disappoint. Her rookie season stats:

• She was among the league leaders: one of the only rookies to finish in the top 10 in points, assists, and steals per game.

• One of her most unforgettable performances: 44 points in a single game against the Los Angeles Sparks, on August 20, while shooting at an incredibly high efficiency. That set a rookie single-game scoring record.

• Not only scoring, but also milestones: she became the fastest rookie in WNBA history to reach 500 points and 100 assists.

Leadership and intangibles

Beyond the numbers, what stood out was Paige’s maturity, her team’s reliance on her, and her ability to grow under pressure.

• Even though the Dallas Wings did not make the playoffs, her consistency in facing adversity and still delivering on the court impressed commentators and teammates alike.

• She had a long streak of games with double-digit scoring, which shows a baseline of reliability.

• Described as a perfectionist, she openly acknowledged pressure, but emphasized progress, learning, and growth as ongoing processes.

The Jennifer Hudson Show moment

What happened

• On September 16, 2025, during her appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, Paige Bueckers was surprised with the 2025 KIA WNBA Rookie of the Year award.

• The show is known for its “tunnel walk” or spirit tunnel — a hallway lined with crew members who cheer, chant, and build anticipation as guests walk through to the stage.

• Paige made the walk, with the staff chanting “Paige Bueckers at J-Hud … she’s the one” and danced her way through. At the end of the tunnel, WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert was waiting, trophy in hand, to make the announcement.

The emotional reaction

• Paige’s reaction was emotional: surprise, pride, and gratitude. She accepted the trophy, hugged Engelbert, and joined Jennifer Hudson on stage.

• The moment resonated not just because of what the award means, but because of how it was done — with warmth, celebration, and theatricality that mirrors Paige’s own expressive personality.

Symbolism and impact

• The presentation on a mainstream talk show like Jennifer Hudson gives the moment wider exposure to audiences beyond hardcore WNBA fans. Moments like these help build broader recognition for women’s basketball and its stars.

• It also serves as a cultural bridge: sports, entertainment, and personal narrative intersect, giving fans a chance to see Paige’s character off the court.

Why Paige’s season deserves the Rookie of the Year

Putting together what we know, here are the key reasons Paige Bueckers earned the 2025 WNBA Rookie of the Year title:

1. Statistical Dominance — Averaging nearly 20 points, over 5 assists, solid rebounds and steals is rare for a rookie.

2. Record-Breaking Performances — The 44-point game and milestones like fastest to 500 points and 100 assists show she’s rewriting what “rookie” can look like.

3. Consistency — Long double-digit scoring streaks, contributing in multiple categories, being a reliable option game after game.

4. Leadership Qualities — Even in a challenging season for Dallas, Paige was a stabilizing presence.

5. Mental and Emotional Game — Her mindset — less about pressure, more about growth — contrasts with many rookies overwhelmed by expectations.

Comparison with other rookies, historical context

• Paige is now among UConn’s legends who have won ROY honors (Rookie of the Year) in the WNBA: along with names like Diana Taurasi, Maya Moore, Tina Charles, Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, and Crystal Dangerfield.

• Her rookie stat line puts her near or ahead of many recent rookies in terms of versatility. For example, Caitlin Clark who won the prior year had similar scoring averages; Paige matched that.

• But beyond scoring, Paige’s all-around game (assists, steals, etc.) gives her an edge in terms of overall contribution.

What this means for Paige Bueckers & the WNBA

For Paige

• Her marketability will likely increase: appearances, endorsements, media opportunities will likely follow.

• She sets expectations high for her second season: now that she’s established credibility, the spotlight (and scrutiny) will grow.

• She’s shown she can carry pressure, which is critical in a league where rookies often face adaptation challenges.

For the WNBA

• Moments like this expand viewer interest. Having a major award presented on a mainstream daytime show helps visibility.

• It reinforces the narrative that the WNBA is producing stars with both athletic talent and broader appeal.

• It could influence future rookie recognition events; combining entertainment and sports presentation can humanize athletes more.

Challenges & what to watch going forward

• Team success: while Paige had a stellar individual season, the Wings as a team did not make the playoffs. How she helps elevate team results will be a watchpoint.

• Skill development: maintaining scoring is one thing, but improving efficiency, decision‐making, defense, leadership under adversity are ongoing tasks.

• Injuries, consistency: rookie seasons are taxing; staying healthy and adapting to the physical toll of a full season is crucial.

Conclusion

Paige Bueckers’ Rookie of the Year award, celebrated on The Jennifer Hudson Show, is more than a trophy—it’s a confirmation. Confirmation of her work ethic, her impact, and her promise. From dominating the statistical categories and shattering rookie records, to handling the spotlight with grace, she’s shown that the hype was well-justified. The surprise presentation was fitting: it captured both her surprise at the recognition and the solemnity of what she’s achieved. As she looks ahead, all eyes will be on what Paige can build next — for herself, her team, and for women’s basketball as a whole.

FAQs

Q1: What were Paige Bueckers’ average stats in her rookie season?
A1: Paige averaged 19.2 points, 5.4 assists, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game during the 2025 WNBA regular season.

Q2: How was Paige Bueckers surprised with the Rookie of the Year trophy?
A2: On The Jennifer Hudson Show, during the show’s signature tunnel walk (a “spirit tunnel” of cheering crew), she was surprised by WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert, who presented her the trophy at the end of the walk.

Q3: What record did Paige set as a rookie?
A3: She set the WNBA rookie single-game scoring record with 44 points against the Los Angeles Sparks. Additionally, she became the fastest rookie in league history to reach 500 points and 100 assists.

Q4: How many votes did she receive for Rookie of the Year?
A4: Paige Bueckers received 70 of the 72 first-place votes for the award, with only two going to Washington Mystics’ Sonia Citron.

Q5: How does Paige’s Rookie of the Year achievement compare to past UConn greats?
A5: She becomes the seventh UConn alum to win the WNBA Rookie of the Year, joining Diana Taurasi, Tina Charles, Maya Moore, Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, and Crystal Dangerfield.