As a professional athlete, WNBA star Paige Bueckers, is often on the road. That’s why getting to spend quality time with her family over the holidays is all the more precious. Bueckers loves nothing more than kicking back with her nearest and dearest, playing board and card games, feasting on Snickers salad and spreading cheer. Here, the 6′ guard shares with Alexa her favorite Yuletide traditions and hot hair color.
You were the 2025 overall first pick of the WNBA draft when you joined the Dallas Wings and then you earned the Kia WNBA Rookie of the Year honor in September. You’ll be making your debut for the Unrivaled league’s Breeze BC Miami team on Jan. 5. Are you looking forward to playing 3-on-3?
I love playing any kind of basketball. The WNBA off-season is pretty long, so this is an exciting opportunity. We have a very intriguing young squad that I can’t wait to play with.
You grew up in Minnesota — what are your favorite holiday traditions and foods?
I’m excited to get to spend the holiday with my family. We put up the Christmas tree together and play a ton of board games and card games. Some of my family’s favorites are Skyjo, Uno, Sorry! and Yahtzee. We also watch seasonal movies. “Elf” is probably my favorite.
Some of my favorite dishes are creamed corn, mashed potatoes, Snickers salad and honey ham. I do not prepare any of the dishes, but I’m still confident I can get it done!
What’s the best holiday gift you’ve ever received or given?
My dad and his girlfriend got me a foot massager for Christmas. The brand is Cloud Massage. It really helped with my recovery after I tore my ACL the summer before my junior year. I still use it for rest and recovery now.
I once gifted someone a cruise, and it was the best — experiences are the best gift in my opinion.
You’re known as a hair-color chameleon. Tell us about your latest transformation.
I’m loving the pink ombre look we created with Madison Reed ColorWonder demi-permanent hair color in “Pink Orchid.” You can still see hints of blond, which makes it fun and bold, but still really me. I haven’t changed my makeup or style too much, but I’m wearing a little more pink. It was already one of my favorite colors.
How do you glam up for the holiday season?
I go for a very natural look, just a little extra glow. Some powder, foundation, mascara and some good perfume, like Santal & Vetiver’s Salt & Stone or Attrape-Rêves from Louis Vuitton.
