Talk about a huge comeback!
UConn Huskies star Paige Bueckers has signed a name, image, likeness (NIL) shoe deal with Nike, as reported by ESPN's Nick DePaula.
"Joining the Nike family is a childhood dream come true," Bueckers said in a statement. "I can’t wait to see what we accomplish together on and off the court."
Bueckers is the first freshman to win the Associated Press Women's College Basketball Player of the Year and United States Basketball Writers Association National Player of the Year award during the 2020-21 season.
She was also hailed the Naismith College Player of the Year. Bueckers will be part of the campaign to promote Nike's GT Hustle 2.
The 21-year-old point guard is expected to make her return to UConn after missing the previous season due to an ACL tear.
Bueckers' NIL deal with Nike is yet another milestone for women sports. Just a few days ago, New York Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu released her first signature shoe with Nike, making it the first-ever basketball unisex trademark collection. Bueckers' nemesis, Caitlin Clark of the Iowa Hawkeyes, who's being touted as the next face of the WNBA, also has her NIL deal with Nike.
Keep winning, ladies!