Paige Bueckers is set to make her WNBA regular season debut for the Dallas Wings this Friday, and her hometown of Hopkins, Minnesota, is pulling out all the stops to celebrate one of their own.
The city will temporarily rename itself 'Paige Bueckers, Minnesota' for the day - a gesture that Hopkins Mayor Patrick Hanlon says reflects the immense pride the community feels for its favorite daughter.
"It’s one thing just to make it pro, but to be the top pick is really an exceptional accomplishment," Hanlon said. "We thought we’d do something more than just a proclamation, so we’re having a ribbon cutting at City Hall and making it an official name change for the day."
Bueckers, the top overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft and a recent national champion with UConn, is expected to make an immediate impact in Dallas.
But back in Hopkins, her influence is already well established.
Hanlon said Bueckers’ impact stretches far beyond basketball, noting her support of local initiatives like the Hopkins Education Foundation and the ICA food shelf.
"She’s not only a champion on the court but a great person who’s always given back to the community," Hanlon said.
Local businesses are joining the celebration, offering a variety of Paige-themed specials.
"There’s a latte named after her, a sushi roll, even an ice cream flavor," Hanlon said. "It’s been amazing to see how the community has come together to show their support for her."
While Hopkins rallies behind their hometown hero, Wings fans in North Texas are just as eager to see Bueckers bring her electrifying talent to the court, facing off against the Minnesota Lynx on Friday night at 6:30 p.m., in a game that will have both states watching closely.