How Much Will Paige Bueckers Earn in Her WNBA Rookie Contract?
The 2025 WNBA Draft had its spotlight moment on Monday night when the Dallas Wings selected Paige Bueckers with the No. 1 overall pick. One of the most talked-about college stars after Caitlin Clark, Bueckers now enters the professional stage with big expectations.
“Just so much gratitude, so much appreciation for the journey that it took to get here”, the former UConn Huskies’ star said after being drafted.
After a stellar four-year run at UConn where she averaged 19.8 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 4.5 assists, 23-year-old Paige Bueckers is ready to begin her WNBA journey. And with her star power, many fans are now wondering:
How much will she earn as the No. 1 pick?
How Much Will Paige Bueckers Earn in Her Rookie Season?
As the No.1 pick, Bueckers will earn $78,831 in her rookie season with Dallas. Under the WNBA’s current rookie scale, her salary will gradually increase each year.
- 2025: $78,831
- 2026: $80,408
- 2027: $88,449
- 2028 (Club Option): $100,510
Source: Spottrac
If the Wings pick up that final-year option, which they almost certainly will, Paige will earn a total of $348,198 over the course of her four-year rookie contract.
Also Read: How Long Does the WNBA Draft Go For?
That number might seem modest compared to NBA rookie deals, but it’s only part of the story. Like many WNBA players, Bueckers is expected to supplement her income through outside opportunities.
She will also take part in Unrivaled, the new women’s basketball league co-founded by stars like Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. That league is already drawing attention with more player-friendly scheduling and higher pay.
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