Bueckers was averaging 21.2 points, 6.2 assists and 5.5 rebounds a game before her injury.
After signing with Wasserman Media Group in August in the wake of the N.C.A.A. permitting college athletes to profit off their name, image and likeness, Bueckers last month became the first college athlete to sign an endorsement deal with Gatorade. She also has a deal with the global sneaker and streetwear reseller StockX.
Bueckers is one of four Huskies currently injured, along with the freshman Azzi Fudd (foot), the sophomore Nika Muhl (foot) and the junior Aubrey Griffin (back, ankle).
Two players, Saylor Poffenbarger and Mir McLean, are transferring, leaving UConn with eight healthy players.
“Every time somebody is out, that gives somebody an opportunity to step in,” Auriemma said.
“Now when Paige and the rest of our players do come back, there’s more people in the party instead of outside hoping to get in and feel like they belong here and can contribute not just when have to, but they’ll be able to contribute as part of the natural flow of our offense.”