Paige Bueckers, the standout guard for the UConn Huskies, has never been shy about praising talent when she sees itāand UCLAās Lauren Betts is no exception. In recent comments, Bueckers made it abundantly clear how much respect she has for Betts, both as an athlete and as a competitor. Her acknowledgment of Bettsā skills reflects a growing sense of admiration thatās developed as both players have become central figures in womenās college basketball.
Bueckers spoke highly of Bettsā dominant presence on the court. Standing 6-foot-7, Betts has been a crucial part of UCLAās success, averaging double-doubles and consistently altering opponentsā strategies with her size, rebounding, and shot-blocking ability. Bueckers noted that playing against someone like Betts requires intense preparation, given her ability to control the paint on both ends of the floor. She recognized Betts as a difference-maker who has elevated the standard of play across the NCAA.
Beyond the stats, Bueckers emphasized Bettsā basketball IQ, noting how she reads plays well and stays poised under pressureāqualities that have made her one of the most respected bigs in the game. Bueckers also touched on Bettsā leadership and how sheās embraced her role at UCLA, especially after transferring from Stanford. According to Bueckers, Betts has found her rhythm and is now showing the full extent of her potential.
This mutual respect between top-tier players speaks volumes about the growing competitiveness and camaraderie in womenās basketball. For Bueckers, Lauren Betts isnāt just a rivalāsheās a fellow star pushing the game forward.