Paige Bueckers, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, made her highly anticipated preseason debut with the Dallas Wings against the Las Vegas Aces.
Despite her impressive college career and the backing of NBA legend Kobe Bryant‘s “Mamba Mentality,” Bueckers faced a formidable challenge in her first taste of professional basketball.
A dream debut with a harsh reality
Wearing Kobe 9 sneakers in UConn colors, a tribute to her alma mater and the late Lakers icon, Bueckers showcased her skills early in the game. She scored 10 points, four rebounds, and one assist in 22 minutes of play, shooting 4-of-7 from the field, including 2-of-3 from beyond the arc.
One standout moment was her left-handed scoop layup over reigning MVP A’ja Wilson, highlighting her potential.
However, the Aces‘ dominance was evident, as they secured a 112-78 victory. The game underscored the significant gap between college and professional play, with Bueckers experiencing firsthand the speed and physicality of the WNBA.
A’ja Wilson’s statement performance
A’ja Wilson, the Aces’ star forward and three-time MVP, delivered a commanding performance, reinforcing the challenges Bueckers and the Wings will face this season.
Wilson‘s leadership on both ends of the court was a clear reminder of the high level of competition in the league.
For Bueckers, the game served as a reality check. While she displayed moments of brilliance, the overall result highlighted the steep learning curve ahead.
Her experience against seasoned professionals like Wilson will be invaluable as she continues to develop and adjust to the demands of the WNBA.
Despite the loss, Bueckers remains optimistic. She expressed excitement about the opportunity to play against elite competition and is committed to continuous improvement.
With the support of her teammates and coaching staff, Bueckers aims to refine her game and contribute to the Wings‘ success in the upcoming season.
As the WNBA preseason progresses, all eyes will be on Bueckers to see how she adapts and grows in the professional arena. While the road may be challenging, her resilience and determination suggest she is ready to rise to the occasion.
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