When Paige Bueckers threw some hilariously awkward boxing punches in a viral TikTok video, her former UConn teammate KK Arnold couldn’t contain her pride.
The Dallas Wings rookie’s playful attempt at the “Nothing Beats A Jet2 Holiday” trend had Arnold immediately reposting the clip with pure excitement, proving their sisterly bond from UConn remains as strong as ever despite no longer playing alongside each other.
Why Did Paige Bueckers’ Boxing Moves from a Dallas Wings Video Go Viral?
The video featured Bueckers joining her Wings teammates in the popular TikTok trend, throwing exaggerated punches and defensive stances that looked more like a young child playing fighter than an actual boxer.
Her playful jabs and comedic timing made the clip an instant hit across social media platforms.
Instagram account Togethxr amplified the fun by sharing the clip on Instagram with the caption “Somebody go check on them @dallaswings Sound [Up].” Even the Wings’ social media team got in on the joke, commenting “admin got scared,” showing how the team’s boxing moves amused everyone involved.
Arnold’s reaction was immediate and heartwarming. She reposted Bueckers’ boxing attempt to her Instagram story, tagging the Wings rookie with pure excitement: “I’m not gonna lie, I’m proud. Come onnnnnnn.”
What Makes KK Arnold and Paige Bueckers’ Bond So Special?
The friendship between Arnold and Bueckers goes far beyond typical college teammates. Their connection resembles a genuine family relationship, with Bueckers calling Arnold “definitely like a little sister to me”, while Arnold refers to her former teammate as her “big sister.”
KK Arnold on her relationship with upperclassman Paige Bueckers. pic.twitter.com/OeX7mGfIZh
— UCTV Sports (@UCTVSports) February 15, 2024
This bond developed through both triumphant and challenging moments during their UConn years. Arnold has credited Bueckers with helping her navigate tough times both on and off the court, providing the kind of support that extends beyond basketball strategy or team chemistry.
The depth of their relationship became evident when Arnold was asked what she would miss most about playing with Bueckers. Arnold got emotional and said, “I don’t know. I miss everything about that little girl. But that’s a big sister to me. Forever will be.”
How Did Their UConn Success Set the Stage for Professional Careers?
Both players contributed significantly to UConn’s 2025 national championship victory, though in different roles that showcased their unique strengths.
Arnold provided crucial energy and defense coming off the bench, delivering nine points in the Final Four and seven points in the championship game during the team’s title run.
Meanwhile, Bueckers anchored the team’s offense throughout their championship campaign, leading UConn with 19.9 points per game during their championship season.
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Bueckers has seamlessly transitioned that college success into professional excellence with Dallas. The first overall pick is currently averaging 18.3 points, 5.5 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per game, earning All-Star starter recognition and breaking multiple rookie records in her debut WNBA season.
Arnold’s enthusiastic reaction to Bueckers’ viral boxing attempt demonstrates how their sisterly connection transcends basketball success. As Arnold enters her junior year at UConn, she continues to build toward potentially following Bueckers’ path to professional basketball, knowing she has a big sister already thriving at the next level.
