LOVING DAHLIA ( ᴘᴀɪɢᴇ ʙᴜᴇᴄᴋᴇʀs) (ON HOLD)

Chapter 17: First Night Magic

Gampel Pavilion buzzed with energy as excited fans packed the stands, eager to see their favorite players. The air was electric, a mix of cheers and flashing cameras as the UConn women's and men's basketball teams prepared to make their entrance. Dahlia held Sadie's hand as they found their seats, taking in the lively atmosphere. It was Sadie's first time in such a large stadium, and her wide eyes were filled with wonder.

Before the event kicked off, Paige turned to Dahlia and Sadie with a soft smile. "I'll meet you both after the scrimmage," she said, leaning down to place a gentle kiss on each of their foreheads. "Enjoy the show, okay?"

Dahlia felt a flutter in her chest at the tender gesture and nodded. "Good luck out there."

With a wink, Paige jogged off toward the locker room to join her team, leaving Dahlia with her thoughts-and a racing heart. She watched as Paige disappeared, then turned her attention to Sadie, who was practically bouncing with excitement in her seat.

As they waited for the show to begin, Dahlia decided to take some pictures for the team's social media. She captured the bustling crowd, the excitement on fans' faces, and the UConn banners draped across the pavilion. Suddenly, the lights dimmed, and the roar of the crowd grew louder. The show was about to start.

One by one, the UConn players made their grand entrance. Each girl came out to their own chosen song, rocking a pair of sunglasses as they hyped up the crowd. Aubrey Griffin was the first, doing a little TikTok dance as she came out, earning cheers from the younger fans. KK Arnold followed, bursting out with boundless energy, dancing and waving to the crowd. Caroline Ducharme walked out next, wearing her sunglasses and smiling as she waved to the stands. Azzi Fudd came out, cool and composed, adding her own flair as she high-fived fans along the way.

Then the announcer's voice boomed through the speakers. "And now, for her last First Night as a Senior... Paige Bueckers!"

The crowd erupted into deafening cheers as "TGIF" by GloRilla started blaring through the sound system. Paige came strutting out, looking hotter than ever in her blue number 5 jersey, her blond hair peeking out from under a pair of rectangular sunglasses. She owned the moment, moving with a languid confidence that had everyone on their feet.

Dahlia's breath caught in her throat as she watched Paige hyping up the crowd, waving and pointing to fans. Paige's presence was magnetic, and Dahlia couldn't tear her eyes away. Paige spotted Dahlia and Sadie in the crowd, and her expression softened. She made heart hands in their direction, making Sadie giggle and wave back excitedly.

"Go Paigey!" Sadie yelled, her small voice barely heard over the roar of the crowd, but Paige saw her enthusiasm and smiled brightly.

Dahlia, meanwhile, was mesmerized. She looks so hot in her jersey... Dahlia thought, her heart pounding. There was something about Paige's easy confidence, her love for the game, and her undeniable charm that made Dahlia's pulse race.

After the fan introductions, the real fun began. Both the men's and women's teams took to the court for a mixed scrimmage. Dahlia found herself fully engaged in the game, watching Paige dart across the court with grace and agility. Paige was in her element-her love for basketball shining through with every move she made. The pure joy on her face was contagious, and Dahlia couldn't help but smile at how happy Paige looked doing what she loved.

Sadie was bouncing in her seat, her tiny fists pumping the air each time Paige touched the ball. Dahlia marveled at how easily Paige connected with Sadie, making her feel part of the experience, even from the stands.

After the scrimmage ended, the players took time to sign autographs and pose for pictures with fans. Dahlia watched from a distance as Paige smiled and talked with the crowd, her easygoing demeanor charming everyone. Once Paige finished, she spotted Dahlia and Sadie talking to Nika near the exit and made her way over.