Draft night isn’t just about names being called—it’s about the glitz, the glam, and the outfits that set social media on fire.
When Paige Bueckers stepped onto the scene at The Shed in New York City, she wasn’t just making her professional debut—she was making a serious fashion statement too.
And like any bold style moment, her look had the internet talking.
Paige Bueckers Turns Heads and Sparks Debate
The former UConn basketball star—now the No. 1 overall WNBA Draft pick—made a dramatic appearance in a sparkly, dark pantsuit paired with an oversized bag.
But that wasn’t the only twist. Between walking the orange carpet and shaking hands with commissioner Cathy Engelbert, Paige actually changed her outfit, swapping in a more daring, lower-cut jacket.
While some fans weren’t exactly sold on her choice of accessories (especially the massive handbag), others thought she nailed it.
One fan joked, “What’s in the bag? An iPad?” Another questioned her stylist’s choices.
But plenty of others came to her defense, praising her boldness and confidence. “Suit game elite,” one user wrote. “Confidence even louder.”
Hailey Van Lith Channels Marilyn Monroe
Another standout from the night was Hailey Van Lith, the former Louisville and LSU star who now plays for TCU.
She stepped out in a short black dress, hair styled with a vintage side part, and told ESPN she was going for a “Marilyn Monroe vibe.” And the internet was here for it.
“She ATE this one up honestly. Kudos to her stylist,” one fan raved.
Others said she looked like actress Hayden Panettiere, and some were even wondering if her NBA star boyfriend Jalen Suggs “could fight” to protect such a fashion icon.
Kiki Iriafen and Dominique Malonga Bring Elegance
The fashion didn’t stop there. Kiki Iriafen, drafted fourth overall by the Washington Mystics, stunned in an intricate gold gown.
Just ahead of her, her new teammate Sonia Citron rocked a cropped suit jacket and thigh-high white socks—definitely a bold move.
French center Dominique Malonga, selected second overall, went the sleek and sophisticated route in a classic black pantsuit and clear glasses, pulling off a timeless vibe.
Russell Westbrook’s Influence and More Orange Carpet Wins
Georgia Amoore, who joined Iriafen and Citron on the Mystics roster at No. 6, wore a funky patterned suit paired with a mini white handbag—and fun fact—NBA star Russell Westbrook personally styled her for the event. Talk about star power behind the scenes.
Aziaha James, the final first-round pick by the Dallas Wings, brought an edgy vibe to the carpet with sunglasses, capris, and white scrunchy socks.
Fans loved her boldness, with one commenting, “Aziaha James didn’t take the moment for granted 🔥.”
Dearica Hamby and Te-Hina Paopao Bring Heart and Heritage
Dearica Hamby, already a WNBA star, walked the carpet with her daughter Amaya in a vibrant pink dress complete with a giant bow.
Meanwhile, Te-Hina Paopao, drafted in the second round by the Atlanta Dream, didn’t attend in person but paid tribute to her Samoan heritage with a beautiful floral headpiece in a video call.
Azzi Fudd Steals the Show—And She Wasn’t Even Drafted
Even players who weren’t in the draft had their moments.
UConn’s Azzi Fudd showed up in a sleek sleeveless black gown, and fans couldn’t get enough of her look.
One said, “Azzi baby how are you gonna look like this for a draft that isn’t even yours?” Another added, “She’s gonna kill the orange carpet next year!”
Paige Bueckers Heads to Dallas With Big Hopes
Despite the fashion frenzy, the basketball part still mattered.
Paige Bueckers was officially selected first overall by the Dallas Wings.
“Dallas, I’m so excited,” she said. “A new city, a new start. Let’s get it.”
It’s a big moment for the franchise, which has only had two winning seasons in the past 15 years.
But with Bueckers joining forces with four-time All-Star Arike Ogunbowale, there’s real hope for a turnaround.
Paige will make her WNBA debut on May 16 against the Minnesota Lynx—and if her draft night confidence is anything to go by, she’s ready to take center court.