In a move that’s already reverberating throughout the sports world, the Dallas Wings have approved a $7.6 million statue to honor superstar Paige Bueckers outside the College Park Center, marking a historic first: no active WNBA player has ever been commemorated in bronze — until now.
The announcement, made official at a packed press conference in Arlington, Texas, has generated overwhelming praise, stirring debates about legacy, impact, and the evolving face of women’s professional basketball. More than just a tribute, this moment signifies a transformative shift in how the league and its athletes are viewed — not just as athletes, but as cultural icons and pioneers.
A Statue for a Living Legend
Since being drafted by the Dallas Wings with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, Paige Bueckers has delivered every bit of the hype — and then some.
In just over a season, Bueckers has become not only the face of the franchise but arguably the most recognizable name in the league, known for her clutch performances, dazzling skillset, and magnetic leadership. Her on-court brilliance has brought the Wings from mediocrity to title contention, igniting one of the most passionate fan bases in the WNBA.
“This isn’t just a statue. It’s a statement,” said Wings owner Bill Cameron during the unveiling event. “Paige Bueckers has transcended the game. She represents excellence, resilience, and the future. And we’re proud that the first-ever statue of an active WNBA player will stand right here in Dallas.”
From UConn Star to WNBA Powerhouse
Bueckers’ journey from Hopkins High School in Minnesota to the University of Connecticut, and now to the WNBA, reads like a basketball fairytale.
At UConn, she became a household name as a freshman phenom, winning National Player of the Year honors, helping revive the Huskies’ dominance, and becoming a social media sensation with millions of followers. After recovering from multiple injuries that sidelined her for parts of her college career, Bueckers returned stronger, hungrier, and more determined.
Her decision to declare for the draft in 2024 — despite having eligibility left — was met with massive fanfare. But few expected just how seamless her transition would be. In her rookie season with the Wings, she:
- Averaged 21.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game
- Became the first rookie to lead all guards in field goal percentage since Diana Taurasi
- Earned All-WNBA First Team and Rookie of the Year honors
- Led Dallas to its first WNBA Finals appearance since relocation
She is more than a rising star — Paige Bueckers is a generational talent.
Why $7.6 Million?
The statue, commissioned by renowned sculptor Nina Vance, will feature Bueckers in one of her iconic moments — her game-winning step-back jumper in overtime against the Las Vegas Aces last season. The total cost — $7.6 million — covers not just the sculpture itself but a landscaped plaza, lighting, digital installations showing her highlights, and interactive elements that celebrate her influence.
Vance described the project as “an artistic challenge” and “a celebration of grace under pressure.”
“Paige represents poise, intelligence, and fire. Capturing her essence in bronze is about more than the pose — it’s about the aura,” she told reporters.
Paige Reacts: “I’m Humbled, Not Finished”
As cameras flashed and cheers echoed, Bueckers herself took the podium, clearly emotional.
“I’m honored beyond words,” she said, tears welling in her eyes. “But I want to be clear — this doesn’t mean I’m done. This isn’t a farewell. This is a beginning. I’m still writing my story.”
She went on to dedicate the statue to “every young girl who’s been told she’s too small, too fragile, or too ambitious.”
“Let this be a message,” Bueckers continued. “You’re enough. You’re worthy. And you deserve to be celebrated while you’re still climbing.”
Changing the Narrative in Women’s Sports
The statue’s timing couldn’t be more important.
Historically, tributes like this have been reserved for retired legends — often years after their final game. In the WNBA, only a few players have been memorialized with statues or named facilities, and none while actively playing.
In contrast, male athletes in other leagues — including Tom Brady and Cristiano Ronaldo — have had statues commissioned during their playing days. This disparity has long fueled criticism about the slow progress in recognizing the achievements of female athletes.
“This moment disrupts that norm,” said Dr. Maya Simmons, a sociologist specializing in gender and sports at SMU. “It says we don’t have to wait until greatness is gone to recognize it. We can honor it in real-time.”
A Social Media Frenzy
Unsurprisingly, the internet exploded with reactions. Within 30 minutes of the news dropping, “Paige Statue” was trending nationwide.
Top Tweets:
@WNBAElite: “$7.6M statue for Paige Bueckers while she’s still playing?! That’s GOAT status. W for Dallas. W for the league. W for HER.”
@SueBirdFanClub: “Paige walked so that girls in sneakers could fly. This isn’t just bronze — it’s a revolution.”
@TaylorRooks: “In a world where women’s sports have to constantly prove their worth, this is loud. This is bold. This is overdue.”
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert also voiced her support on Instagram:
“The Wings are rewriting history. Paige is the future. This is a landmark moment for the W.”
️ A Boost for the Wings and the WNBA
The Wings’ decision is already paying off in more ways than one. Since the announcement:
- Season ticket sales have spiked 49%
- Merchandising featuring Bueckers has tripled in volume
- Corporate sponsorships and brand partnerships are flooding in
The statue is expected to be unveiled in spring 2026, ahead of the WNBA season. City leaders are preparing for a massive dedication ceremony, expected to draw tens of thousands of fans, celebrities, and basketball icons.
Arlington Mayor Jim Ross called it “an event that will go down in city history.”
Legacy in the Making
While many argue it’s “too soon” to immortalize an active player, Bueckers has shown that greatness doesn’t wait.
“She has completely shifted the culture in Dallas,” said Wings head coach Latricia Trammell. “Her leadership, her work ethic, the way she inspires others — that’s legacy material. Whether you’re 22 or 52, if you’ve earned it, you’ve earned it.”
It’s also worth noting that Bueckers is more than an athlete — she’s become an activist, influencer, and role model, using her platform to speak out on social justice, youth mentorship, and pay equity in sports.
The decision to immortalize her now reflects a deeper truth: Paige Bueckers isn’t just playing the game. She’s changing it.
Final Thoughts
The $7.6 million statue may be forged from bronze, but its meaning is golden. It’s a signal to the world that women’s sports are not an afterthought, not a footnote, and not waiting for approval.
It tells young athletes that they can — and should — be celebrated during their prime.
And most of all, it tells Paige Bueckers that her impact is already eternal.
