The WNBA experienced an unforgettable spectacle this Wednesday when Paige Bueckers, rookie star of the Dallas Wings, delivered a historic performance with 44 points, although her team fell 81-80 to the Los Angeles Sparks in a movie-like ending.
The drama peaked in the final seconds, when Kelsey Plum scored a floater that sealed the game by the narrowest margin.
Chet Holmgren enjoys Bueckers’ show in the WNBA
Among the crowd, one of the most excited spectators was Chet Holmgren, young star of the Oklahoma City Thunder. The 23-year-old forward, wearing a 2025 NBA champions cap and a relaxed look with a black jacket, was captured standing and celebrating every play by the Wings. According to witnesses, he remained standing for most of the third quarter, energized by the moment.
Bueckers’ impact was such that she not only set the scoring record for a rookie in a WNBA game, but also matched Cynthia Cooper’s historic 1997 mark, recording the tenth-highest point total in league history.
Paige Bueckers breaks records in Dallas Wings’ loss
Despite the defeat, the game was etched in history. With otherworldly efficiency, Bueckers made 17 of 21 field goals, including four perfect three-pointers, and delivered a memorable final quarter by scoring all 14 of her team’s points. Dallas briefly took the lead at 80-79, but a turnover opened the door for Plum’s final basket.
The result, however, marked the official end of the Wings’ postseason hopes, as they sit in 11th place with a 9-27 record. But nothing could overshadow the rookie’s feat, as she also became the first player in WNBA history to score over 40 points with 80% shooting accuracy from the field.
Sparks spoil the party but Bueckers makes history
On the Sparks’ side, Rickea Jackson led with 25 points, followed by Plum with 20, and contributions from Dearica Hamby (14) and Cameron Brink (11). With that collective effort, Los Angeles withstood Bueckers’ surge and celebrated a playoff-flavored victory.
With this performance, Paige Bueckers not only confirmed her status as a future WNBA superstar, but also made it clear that her name is already being written among the league’s greats. And in the front row, a smiling Chet Holmgren was just one among thousands of fans who witnessed a historic night.
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