Dallas Wings star Paige Bueckers has announced a significant change to her signature hairstyle, revealing that fans will not see her double Dutch braids again. The change comes after her emotional return to the University of Connecticut for the women’s Final Four tournament, where she showcased her iconic hairstyle during the Huskies’ game against the South Carolina Gamecocks.
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In a recent exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Bueckers expressed her sentiments surrounding her hair transformation at a Madison Reed salon, following her team’s defeat. The 24-year-old, who became the first overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Wings, shared her superstition about hairstyles and their influence on performance. “Honestly, I wanted to bring it back because I was hoping it would bring good vibes for the UConn game. It was my first Final Four as an alum,” she said. However, with the 62-48 upset, Bueckers has decided it is time to move on from the braids.
Bueckers, who enjoyed a celebrated career with UConn, had consistently worn her braids during her college basketball days. Reflecting on the importance of this hairstyle, she explained her reasoning behind its reappearance for the Final Four. “I just wanted to feel like I was still a part of the team and I was still here,” she added. Yet, following the game’s outcome, she made a definitive decision. “No, no. I don’t think actually anybody will ever see them again,” she stated, acknowledging the direct link between her hairstyle and the game results.
Despite bidding farewell to her beloved braids, Bueckers is not abandoning her signature blonde locks. She has partnered with Madison Reed, particularly with their ColorWonder demi-permanent hair colour line, to maintain her fresh look. After a long time without a hair appointment, Bueckers noted that her roots needed a refresh. “It’s good to be back blonde for sure. They use products that are good for my hair and cause less damage,” she explained after her hair transformation.
Bueckers’ relationship with Madison Reed is especially meaningful, as the brand’s founder, Amy Errett, is also a UConn alumna. This shared background has attracted several former Huskies to the salon, including Azzi Fudd and Sarah Strong. Bueckers praised Errett, saying, “She’s just a people’s person! She treats people extremely well and she is easy to connect to, so I’m really glad I got the opportunity to work with them. It’s been an honour.”
As Bueckers gears up for her second season with the Wings, she is optimistic about the changes happening within the team. Following the appointment of new head coach Jose Fernandez, who took over from Chris Koclanes in October, the environment is charged with excitement. Bueckers mentioned that she is eager to continue building team chemistry. “I think I’ve gotten to know Coach Jose a little bit through USA Basketball. I got that experience with him a couple of weeks ago,” she remarked.
The upcoming WNBA season will bring various new faces to the Wings’ roster due to free agency and the draft, which Bueckers views as an opportunity for growth. “So to get back to work, continue to keep building what we want to build there in Dallas and continue to set the foundation of what we want the future to look like, it’s very exciting,” she concluded.
As fans await the start of the new season, Bueckers is setting her sights on impacting the league further. With her revamped style and a renewed focus, she is prepared to make her mark as the Wings aim for success in the upcoming campaign.