TAMPA, Fla. — An emotional and pivotal moment awaits this Sunday afternoon when Paige Bueckers steps onto the court at Amalie Arena in her Connecticut basketball jersey for the last time. This occasion marks the culmination of an impressive college career that has captivated fans and redefined expectations for women’s basketball at UConn. It’s hard to imagine that a player so synonymous with the university is nearing the end of her collegiate journey. After enduring significant challenges, including serious knee injuries and leading UConn teams that navigated through adversity, the 23-year-old star is now prepared to transition to the WNBA, armed with a wealth of experience and determination.

On this decisive day, Bueckers will lead the Huskies in their quest for a national championship, facing off against a formidable South Carolina team. Unlike many UConn legends who have come before her, Bueckers does not yet possess a national title—a fact that adds weight to this final showdown. The Huskies have not lifted the championship trophy in nearly a decade, an astonishing drought for a program that once dominated the sport, securing four consecutive titles in the early 2010s and a total of 11 championships under the guidance of legendary coach Geno Auriemma.

“The goal of every kid that comes to UConn is, ‘I want to walk off the court with the last game of my senior year being a national championship game, and we win that game,’” Auriemma remarked during a SiriusXM interview this weekend. “That’s not always realistic, but it’s a great goal to strive for. Players like Paige, who have experienced their own unique journeys, have poured their hearts into our program and the community.” His pride in Bueckers was palpable as he acknowledged her immense contributions, stating, “Paige has invested as much—if not more—of her personal self into our program and into her game than anyone we’ve had. She deserves this opportunity.”

However, the path to victory won’t be straightforward. Bueckers and her teammates are fully aware of the expectations that accompany wearing the UConn jersey. While the championship trophy remains elusive for the program in recent years, the current team has shown remarkable resilience. They advanced to the national title game with a resounding 34-point victory over No. 1 overall seed UCLA, reinforcing their status as formidable contenders. Yet, they will face a South Carolina squad, led by head coach Dawn Staley, that is vying for its third national championship in four years. The stakes are high, and the pressure is palpable.

Bueckers has expressed her understanding of the weight of these expectations. “Obviously there are expectations here,” she reflected. “Anything less than a national championship is really a disappointment. That’s what you play for and want to live up to. The expectations and the pressure, it’s a privilege.” This mindset showcases her readiness to embrace the challenge as she prepares for the game that could define her legacy.

When it comes to her legacy, Bueckers remains humble, deferring to others to assess her impact on the game and the university. Staley, for one, noted that Bueckers is already considered a legend, regardless of the outcome on Sunday. The joy of relationships and shared experiences with her teammates remains at the forefront of her priorities. “The journey is the reward for me,” she stated. “I never take for granted being able to play here and wear this uniform.”

As the countdown to tip-off draws closer, Bueckers’ teammates and coach are rallying around her, eager to secure a title not just for themselves, but for their beloved leader. Auriemma, known for his playful banter and competitive spirit, highlighted the bittersweet nature of potentially winning the championship: “It’d be bittersweet if Paige wins this national championship at UConn because that’s one less thing I can annoy her about.” Yet, this friendly teasing underscores the deep bond shared between the coach and player, a testament to the culture of support and camaraderie at UConn.

On Sunday, as the stadium fills with anticipation and excitement, all eyes will be on Paige Bueckers—a player who has become an enduring symbol of resilience, talent, and passion in women’s basketball.