Nika Muhl’s story is far from over. Her rookie year may not have gone as planned, and the injury in Turkey was a cruel twist of fate
But she remains a resilient figure, battling through adversity with quiet strength and unwavering determination.
As she continues her recovery—stepping back on the court, shot by shot, rep by rep—the basketball world watches and waits.
If her past is any indication, Nika Muhl is not just coming back—she’s coming back stronger, smarter, and hungrier than ever before.
In the end, Paige Bueckers’ Mazda-key comment on Nika Muhl’s Instagram post was more than just a witty remark — it was a reflection of years of friendship, shared dreams, and mutual admiration.
As the WNBA continues to rise, it’s these personal moments that fans will remember just as much as buzzer-beaters and championship wins.
Whether it’s on the court or on the orange carpet, Bueckers and Muhl remind us that women’s basketball is about much more than the game. It’s about identity, empowerment, and the lifelong bonds forged in the fire of competition.
Also Read: Paige Bueckers’ Latest Instagram Post: Seattle Storm’s Nika Muhl Drops Sarcastic Remark
Table of Contents
Nika Muhl: On the Road to Recovery
Seattle Storm guard Nika Muhl appears to be making significant progress in her recovery from a devastating ACL injury that halted her rookie WNBA season before it could fully begin.1
Recently, Muhl was seen back on the court, engaged in light workouts while wearing the Nike G.T. Hustle 3 Player Edition shoes—a design closely tied to her former UConn teammate, Paige Bueckers.
The sighting was shared by WNBA reporter Roberta Rodriguez, who tweeted, “Nika Mühl looked good putting in some shots today, working hard for the recovery.”
This update comes as a beacon of hope for fans eager to see the tough-nosed guard back in action.
No, you 😍 https://t.co/1RQDxi044K
— Nika Muhl (@MuhlNika) July 3, 2024
A Glimpse of Support: Bueckers’ Shoe and Symbolism
Perhaps the most touching aspect of the workout wasn’t just Muhl’s movement—it was what she was wearing.
The Nike G.T. Hustle 3 Player Edition basketball shoes she sported weren’t just any sneakers. They were designed by Paige Bueckers, Muhl’s longtime friend and backcourt partner from their time at UConn.
This shoe made history as the first NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) signature sneaker by a university athlete, symbolizing not just innovation but empowerment.
For Muhl to choose this shoe in her recovery process speaks volumes about their relationship and the support system around her. In a way, it was a quiet nod to her roots and the bond that carried her through her formative basketball years.
A Challenging Rookie Season
Drafted 14th overall by the Seattle Storm in the 2024 WNBA Draft, Nika Muhl entered the league with high expectations due to her intense defensive play and elite court vision.
However, her rookie campaign didn’t unfold as planned. She appeared in just 16 games during the regular season and logged only 57 minutes of total playing time.
Her limited role was not necessarily a reflection of her potential. Like many rookies, she faced the challenge of transitioning from college to the professional game—a league stacked with seasoned veterans and rising stars.
Despite the lack of minutes, Muhl’s presence was felt, especially during practices and in her support role off the court.
Nika Muhl: Overseas Opportunity Turns Tragic
With a desire to develop further and get more playing time, Muhl looked overseas after the WNBA season.2
She signed a contract with Beşiktaş, a prominent Turkish club known for its competitive environment and international player development.
Unfortunately, tragedy struck quickly. In her very first game for Beşiktaş in October, Muhl tore her ACL—a severe injury that would alter her plans dramatically.
It was a heartbreaking moment for a player just starting to find her rhythm and place in professional basketball.
Placed on the Suspended List: What It Means
Following the injury, the Seattle Storm announced that Muhl would be placed on the suspended list for the 2025 WNBA season.
While this may sound ominous, in the WNBA context, it’s actually a strategic roster move. It allows the team to retain her rights while freeing up a roster spot during her rehabilitation.
This also means that Seattle has not given up on her—on the contrary, they are invested in her future.
The Storm’s management and coaching staff are likely to monitor her recovery closely, hoping that she can return stronger in 2026.
Nika Muhl’s College Legacy
More Than Just Numbers
While Nika Muhl’s professional journey has hit early speed bumps, her legacy at UConn remains impactful.3
Across 131 games for the Huskies, she averaged 5.8 points, 5.2 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game. These may not be jaw-dropping statistics on paper, but Muhl’s influence ran far deeper than box scores.
She was the engine behind UConn’s offense in many ways. Her ability to push the pace, break down defenses, and deliver pinpoint passes made her a crucial part of Geno Auriemma’s system.
On defense, her relentless pressure and high motor set the tone for the entire team.
More importantly, she brought grit, leadership, and a no-nonsense attitude that endeared her to fans and teammates alike.
A Sisterhood with Paige Bueckers
One of the most endearing parts of Muhl’s story is her close friendship with Paige Bueckers. The duo formed a formidable backcourt at UConn, balancing each other’s strengths with precision.
Bueckers, often the scoring dynamo, was complemented perfectly by Muhl’s playmaking and defensive intensity.
Their bond went beyond the hardwood. Off the court, the two were often seen laughing, training together, and supporting one another through injuries and setbacks.
It’s no surprise then that Muhl chose to wear Bueckers’ signature shoes during her rehab workouts—it’s a subtle but powerful reminder of where she’s been and who she’s doing it for.
The Fight to Return Stronger
Coming back from an ACL tear is no small feat. It requires not only physical rehab but also immense mental resilience. Muhl appears determined to beat the odds.
Early footage from workouts, such as the one shared by Rodriguez, show a focused and determined athlete slowly but surely regaining her form.
Rehab isn’t glamorous—it’s slow, repetitive, and often discouraging. But Muhl’s personality has always been defined by toughness and persistence.
Her fans, teammates, and coaches know that if anyone can come back from a serious injury with more fight, it’s her.
Looking Ahead to 2026 and Beyond
- Although the 2025 season will be lost to recovery, the long-term outlook for Nika Muhl is still bright. Guards with her vision, tenacity, and leadership are always in demand in the WNBA.
- When healthy, she could carve out a niche as a defensive specialist and floor general—a player who may not always score in double digits, but who makes those around her better.
- Her stint at UConn has already shown that she thrives in high-pressure environments. If the Storm are patient and committed to her development, they may reap the rewards when she returns fully healthy.
- Another important dimension of this story is the continuing influence of NIL deals in sports.
- Paige Bueckers’ collaboration with Nike opened new doors for college athletes, and the sight of Muhl embracing that legacy—even unintentionally—is a symbol of how far the women’s game has come.
- These developments are helping female athletes build their personal brands, gain financial security, and create meaningful connections within the sports industry.
- Muhl, by association, benefits from this progress as she continues to shape her identity both on and off the court.
Also Read: Nika Muhl Bio, Age, Career, Parents, Personal Life And More
Nika Muhl Turns Heads With Bold Draft Night Fashion
When it comes to WNBA Draft fashion, players know that what they wear on the orange carpet can be just as memorable as where they get picked.
Nika Muhl, never one to shy away from boldness, made a striking appearance in a sleek black suit paired with a cropped top.
The all-black base was elevated with sharp sky-blue pointed heels that brought a pop of color to the ensemble.
A simple black handbag and a bold metallic chain added flair and attitude to her look — an outfit that balanced chic style with a hint of swagger.
Fans praised the outfit for its confident, edgy, and European-inspired vibe. Muhl, originally from Croatia, brought a cosmopolitan touch to the orange carpet, effortlessly blending elegance and personal style.
Paige Bueckers Drops a Playful Comment That Stole the Show
The moment that truly sparked engagement online, however, was when Paige Bueckers commented on Nika’s outfit post. Bueckers wrote, “Better be a Mazda key on there😝,” referencing the metallic chain Muhl was wearing.
The cheeky comment had fans laughing and praising the supportive, fun dynamic between the two former teammates.
The comment may seem playful on the surface, but it speaks volumes about the closeness and familiarity shared between Bueckers and Muhl.
They’ve spent countless hours together on and off the court during their time at UConn, forming a connection that goes beyond basketball.
A Friendship Forged in Storrs
Both Paige Bueckers and Nika Muhl were part of the elite UConn women’s basketball program — one of the most respected in the country.
During their overlapping years at UConn, the two were not just teammates, but sisters in arms, leading the Huskies through deep NCAA tournament runs and battling adversity together.
Bueckers, known for her scoring ability and leadership, and Muhl, known for her gritty defense and court vision, complemented each other beautifully on the hardwood.
Their synergy extended into off-court life, where their friendship blossomed in full public view.
Nika Muhl’s Journey: From Croatia to the WNBA Draft
For Nika Muhl, making it to the WNBA Draft stage was not just about entering professional basketball — it was the culmination of an international journey of dedication.
Born and raised in Croatia, Muhl made the bold decision to cross the Atlantic to pursue her basketball dreams at UConn.
Her style of play, often described as passionate, intense, and fearless, reflected her upbringing and the international game’s influence.
On Instagram, she shared a tidbit that reminded fans of her global path: “4,281 miles just to be here.” This statement was a powerful nod to the miles traveled, both literally and metaphorically, to reach that milestone moment.
Draft Night: A Celebration of Sisterhood
Although Nika Muhl wasn’t selected in the first round, her presence at the WNBA Draft was a significant celebration in itself.
She walked the orange carpet surrounded by people who had seen her journey firsthand — including fellow UConn stars Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd.
This presence of a sisterhood at the draft — of women lifting each other up — emphasized a broader cultural shift within women’s basketball.
The WNBA continues to grow in popularity, and with that comes more media attention, more fans, and more eyes on draft night fashion, interactions, and friendships.
Players like Muhl and Bueckers are redefining what it means to be both elite athletes and influential public figures.
Nika Muhl: Advertisement
Nika Muhl recently partnered with Mazda and advertising them on her official instagram account.
View this post on Instagram
Social Media Reacts: Fans Love the Energy
The moment Bueckers commented on Muhl’s Instagram post, it was screenshotted, shared, and discussed widely across platforms like Twitter, Instagram Stories, Reddit, and even TikTok.
Fans loved the genuine nature of the interaction and how it wasn’t overly scripted or forced — just a natural moment between two friends in the spotlight.
“She really said ‘Mazda key’ and I can’t unsee it now 😂,” wrote one fan. Another user commented, “UConn bond is forever. Paige and Nika still riding for each other!”
This lighthearted moment reminded fans that the WNBA isn’t just about competition — it’s about community.
What Paige’s Comment Really Meant
- While the comment might come off as a humorous jab, it holds deeper meaning. Paige Bueckers and Nika Muhl spent four years building a sisterly relationship.
- They went through injuries, losses, wins, and personal growth — all while under national scrutiny.
- So, when Bueckers comments something playful, it’s coming from a place of deep respect and affection.
- It’s the type of inside joke that only true friends can get away with, and that resonated with fans who love seeing these kinds of authentic moments from their favorite athletes.
- Nika Muhl’s outfit also opens up a broader conversation about fashion in women’s basketball. The WNBA has long embraced individuality and self-expression.
- From Skylar Diggins-Smith’s designer looks to A’ja Wilson’s streetwear flair, players are stepping into the spotlight not only as athletes but also as fashion icons.
- Muhl’s sky-blue heels and cropped look symbolize a new era — one where European elegance meets WNBA edge.
- By embracing bold style, Muhl demonstrated how fashion can be a form of empowerment, especially on such a big night.
Also Read: Paige Bueckers Thrilled for Nika Muhl’s First WNBA Points with Seattle Storm
