Paige Bueckers is heading into her final March Madness before heading to the WNBA, and she will be sporting her usual attire.
The 23-year-old guard who has made history this season will be hoping to lead the UConn Huskies to glory.
She will be at the forefront of the action again after UConn were knocked out of last year’s NCAA Tournament in the Final Four by Caitlin Clark’s Iowa.
Projected No.1 WNBA draft pick Bueckers stands out on the court not only because of her ability but also because she opts to wear knee pads on both legs during games.
Here, talkSPORT.com takes a look at why this is the case…
Why does Bueckers wear knee pads?
Knee pads are not uncommon in basketball.
They are used to help protect players from injury, helping to reduce impact on the knee joints and cushioning shock when jumping, landing and pivoting on the court.
But for Bueckers, they are crucial to her game as she has already suffered two serious knee injuries in her college basketball career.
In December 2021, she suffered a tibial plateau fracture and torn meniscus which kept her out of action for 19 games in total.
And then in July 2022, she tore her anterior crucial ligament (ACL) in her left knee and was forced to undergo surgery before missing the entire 22/23 season.
Bueckers made a return to playing two years ago and has fortunately avoided another issue since.
She had worn knee pads before her injuries, but they are certain to be helping her prevent a further injury when she plays now.
It leaves her in a great condition heading into March Madness and her full confidence is truly back after two long recoveries.
The UConn Huskies are going to be big contenders for glory in the NCAA Tournament and they will want to claim a championship.
Bueckers will be playing a huge part in that push for glory and she’s excited to get things underway.
“Obviously, very excited,” Bueckers said. “This is what you prepare for your whole entire life, whole entire season.
“I’m just excited. March is great. Playing during this time is great.
“We just want to continue to keep getting better and keep looking forward to the future.”
This is Bueckers’ last chance at going all the way in March Madness, as she is set to turn professional and enter the WNBA draft.
She is tipped to go as the No.1 pick if she declares, especially if she can keep her form up this season in the tournament.
So there is a lot riding on this for Bueckers who is still on her journey to the top after incredibly coming back from two serious injuries.
March Madness Key Dates
Selection Sunday – March 16
First Four – March 18-19 (men); March 19-20 (women)
First Round – March 20-21 (men); March 21-23 (women)
Second Round – March 22-23 (men); March 23-24 (women)
Sweet 16 – March 27-28 (men); March 28-29 (women)
Elite Eight – March 29-30 (men); March 30-31 (women)
Final Four – April 4 (women); April 5 (men);
Championship Games – April 6 (women); April 7 (men)
