Sports are known for their thrilling moments and fierce competition, but for UConn star Paige Bueckers, a chilling case of stalking darkened her world. In a turn of justice, both the WNBA and Connecticut have stepped in, ensuring the 40-year-old man responsible faces serious consequences. With the matter now resolved, Bueckers and her legal team are ready to turn the page on this unsettling chapter.
According to a recent post on X by an ESPN feature writer, “He is barred from CT for 3 years, barred from arenas, hotels, & practice facilities where UConn WBB will be, & the WNBA barred him from all arenas and practice facilities.”
The post went on to reveal that Bueckers’ attorney expressed the star’s wishes “My client wanted him to go home, get treatment and to be left alone.’”
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
This announcement came after a guilty plea by the man responsible for stalking Bueckers, who had made disturbing efforts to get closer to her, including posting on social media that he planned to propose to the UConn player. His actions, which included sending rambling, inappropriate messages, were not only concerning but raised alarms about Bueckers’ safety.
This case reached its legal conclusion when the man, from Grants Pass, Oregon, pleaded guilty to a second-degree charge of stalking in Rockville Superior Court. The guilty plea resulted in a one-year suspended sentence, with three years of probation.
As part of the plea agreement, he is bound by a protective order that will remain in effect until January 4, 2064. This order prohibits him from entering the state of Connecticut during his probation period, as well as barring him from arenas, hotels, and practice facilities where UConn’s women’s basketball team is present.
WNBA steps up, barring Paige Bueckers’ stalker to ensure her safety
The WNBA has also stepped in, issuing its own restriction, barring the stalker from all arenas and practice facilities across the league.
In an emotional moment, the stalker apologized in court to Connecticut, its residents, and the University of Connecticut. His attorney shared that he would be flying back to Washington, marking the end of his legal ordeal. While Bueckers and UConn head coach Geno Auriemma chose not to comment publicly on the situation, Bueckers’ attorney expressed satisfaction with the outcome.
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
“We’re very happy with that,” said Robert Britt, who represented Bueckers during the legal proceedings.
via Getty SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – JULY 05: Paige Bueckers of the UConn Huskies watches during the game between the Seattle Storm and the Chicago Sky at Climate Pledge Arena on July 05, 2024 in Seattle, Washington. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
The story began in August 2023, when Bueckers’ stalker was arrested by Connecticut State Police while walking along a highway near Bradley International Airport in Windsor Locks. At the time, he claimed he was en route to see Paige.
ADVERTISEMENT Article continues below this ad
While this case concludes with legal action, it serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining athlete safety, especially for those who, like Bueckers, are thrust into the limelight at a young age.
As justice prevails for Paige Bueckers, the swift action taken by both the WNBA and the legal system highlights the seriousness with which these matters are now being addressed.