Dallas Wings star Paige Bueckers has quickly become one of the brightest young faces in women’s basketball, but even rising stars need guidance. For Bueckers, that guidance has come from none other than Kyrie Irving, the Dallas Mavericks guard she grew up idolizing.
During a recent interview at a Mavericks preseason game, Bueckers spoke about her relationship with Irving, calling him both a mentor and her all-time favorite player.
“It was just through social media. Sort of in high school, he kinda reached out and just offered the support and just offered sort of like a mentorship position for me,” Bueckers explained. “I’ve looked up to him since I was young, and he’s my favorite basketball player ever. So, to be able to build that relationship, he’s just an amazing, genuine human being.”
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Their bond began years ago, when Irving reached out to Bueckers while she was still in high school, offering encouragement as she navigated the pressures of being a top prospect. Since then, the two have stayed in touch, with Irving attending some of Bueckers’ games and celebrating her milestones, including her selection as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft.
When Bueckers officially joined the Wings, Irving posted a heartfelt message congratulating her, praising her resilience and predicting that her career would be remembered long after she retires.
Now, with both stars representing Dallas basketball, their connection has taken on even more significance. Irving, sidelined with injury, has been a visible supporter of Bueckers, while she continues to shine as one of the WNBA’s most promising young guards.
For Bueckers, having her childhood hero in her corner has been surreal.
“He’s just an amazing, genuine human being,” she said. “To have someone like that believe in me and support me, it means the world.”
Bueckers’ admiration for Irving underscores the growing crossover between the NBA and WNBA, where mentorship and mutual respect are helping elevate the women’s game. For young fans, seeing one of the league’s brightest stars openly celebrate her connection with an NBA champion is a reminder that basketball greatness transcends leagues and genders.
