Paige Bueckers Permanently Retires Iconic Double Braids Hairstyle
In a surprising move that has captivated WNBA fans, Dallas Wings star Paige Bueckers has announced she will never bring back her stunning double braids hairstyle. The decision, which caught many off guard, stems from a deeper, superstitious reason tied to a disappointing basketball moment rather than mere fashion trends.
A Nostalgic Return That Ended in Farewell
The double braids made a brief reappearance during the Final Four semifinal on April 3, when UConn Huskies women's basketball faced the South Carolina Gamecocks. For Bueckers, this was her first Final Four as an alum, and she hoped the hairstyle would reconnect her with the version of herself that thrived at UConn. "Honestly, I wanted to bring it back because I was hoping it would bring good vibes for the UConn game," she exclusively told PEOPLE. "It was my first Final Four as an alum, so I just wanted to feel like I was still a part of the team and I was still here."
However, the outcome did not align with her hopes. UConn lost 62-48, and for Bueckers, this defeat was enough to seal the fate of the hairstyle that once defined her college career. "No, no. I don't think actually anybody will ever see them again," the 2025 NCAA champion explained. "Because we lost." She described the braids as "a good vibe" for what they represented, but some associations prove hard to shake, even for an athlete accustomed to moving forward.
Embracing a New Look and Focus
While the double braids are gone, Bueckers is not undergoing a complete reinvention. Her current preference leans toward simplicity and consistency, with a slicked-back ponytail becoming her go-to style. This look fits seamlessly into her rhythm and routine as she prepares for the upcoming WNBA season with the Dallas Wings.
Additionally, Bueckers remains loyal to her blonde hair color, recently refreshing it after the tournament in Phoenix through her partnership with Madison Reed. The shade, known as UConnic Blonde, has become an integral part of her image, complementing her on-court performance. "It's been a long time since I got my hair done, so my roots were pretty bad. So it's good to be back blonde for sure," she shared.
Shifting Attention Back to Basketball
Beyond hairstyle changes, Bueckers is redirecting her focus to basketball. With a new head coach, Jose Fernandez, and upcoming roster adjustments, she expresses enthusiasm for the future in Dallas. This shift highlights her dedication to the sport and her team's prospects in the competitive WNBA landscape.
The retirement of her double braids marks a symbolic end to a chapter in her career, but Bueckers continues to evolve both on and off the court, embracing new beginnings with determination and style.
