NBA legend Chris Paul and WNBA standout Paige Bueckers share a mutual respect for each other’s game. Paul, a 20-year veteran of the NBA, has made a significant mark with multiple teams, being a 12-time NBA All-Star, 11-time All-NBA team member, Rookie of the Year, and five-time league assist leader. Bueckers, fresh off her rookie season in the WNBA, has already earned an All-Star nod, made the All-WNBA Second Team, taken home Rookie of the Year honors, and ranked in the top 10 for points, assists, and steals per game—putting her among the top rookies in league history.
Recognizing their shared dedication to basketball and culture, Bueckers became an equity partner in Paul’s snack company, Good Eat’n, making her the first WNBA player to invest in an NBA player’s food business. The partnership also introduced a new snack called “Ragerz,” blending Bueckers’ love for mild spice flavors. Paul emphasized that their collaboration was driven by connection and opportunity rather than making history. He is committed to supporting women and their achievements in sports.
In an interview, Paul shared that he admired Bueckers’ authenticity and connection with people, while Bueckers expressed her respect for Paul’s leadership qualities, competitive spirit, and longevity in the game. She aims to model her career on his sustained excellence. Bueckers also sees this partnership as an opportunity to address food insecurity through her foundation.
When asked about advice for her second WNBA season, Paul underscored the importance of becoming stronger and continuing to learn from every challenge, much like he did transitioning from college to the pros. On hearing the Dallas Wings had another No. 1 draft pick, Bueckers noted that while that’s not ideal for a winning team, it offers hope for growth and future success.
Paul playfully suggested a new nickname for Bueckers as “Paige Ragers,” reflecting both her personality and their snack collaboration, while affirming that her original nickname “Paige Bucket” still fits well.
Fan Take: This partnership between Chris Paul and Paige Bueckers is a landmark moment that exemplifies the growing respect and collaboration between NBA and WNBA stars. It highlights not only individual excellence but also the expanding business and cultural opportunities for women in sports, promising greater visibility and support for the WNBA’s future.
