Team USA star Paige Bueckers was given a new alias after an incredible play at the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup.
On Monday, Team USA wrapped up their Group D play with a dominant 41-point win over the Czech Republic, 105-64, at Uber Arena.
This was their response after barely surviving a close 55-52 win over Italy on Sunday. Among the top performers during the game was Bueckers, who finished with 10 points, one rebound, five assists and the game-high two blocks.
USA Basketball’s Instagram account posted one of her blocks and even gave her a new nickname.
“Paige Blockers ❌ @paigebueckers,” Team USA wrote in the caption.
The Dallas Wings guard swatted away the layup attempt of Petra Holesinska. This play came as a bit of a surprise since the 6-foot Bueckers is not exactly known for being a shot-blocker.
Bueckers also recorded two blocks in their game against Italy, but didn’t have any in their first game against China. The former UConn standout is averaging a team-high 1.3 blocks per game, along with 10.3 points, 2.0 rebounds and 3.7 assists in three games played.
Now, Bueckers and Team USA will face Hungary in the quarterfinals. Minnesota Lynx forward Dorka Juhasz is Hungary’s leading scorer with 17.0 points, along with 12.3 rebounds per game in the group phase.
Juhasz is a solid backup for the league-leading Lynx in the WNBA with her 3.8 points, 2.6 rebounds and 1.2 steals in 17 games off the bench this season.
USA vs. Hungary is scheduled for Thursday at 5:30 a.m. ET.
