10 most impactful players for 2025 NCAA women’s basketball tournament

3. Paige Bueckers, G, UConn

Bueckers is one of the most experienced players on this list and the first-team All-American has accomplished nearly everything there is to achieve individually at the collegiate level, including being named 2021 National Player of the Year. However, a national championship has eluded Bueckers despite a couple of Final Four appearances, likely giving her added motivation in her final games with the 31-3 Huskies. The 6-foot senior has been her dominant self once again this season, averaging 19 points, 4.5 rebounds, 4.9 assists and two steals. She has also remained efficient offensively, shooting 53.6% from the field, 40.6% from 3-point range and a career-best 89.9% from the free-throw line. Bueckers’ ability to take over a game sets her apart, and she makes UConn a dangerous team to face alongside Azzi Fudd and freshman star Sarah Strong.