With the Dallas Wings stuck in a deep slump at 1-10, moments of levity have become rare but one shining light has been the budding bond between rookie phenom Paige Bueckers and fiery veteran DiJonai Carrington. Together, they’ve formed a playful, yet protective friendship that has caught fans’ attention.
During team media sessions, Bueckers has taken to clowning around, often stepping into Carrington‘s interviews just to stir the pot.
Meanwhile, Carrington has jokingly labeled Bueckers “bothersome,” but the nickname seems more affectionate than annoyed.
Their chemistry isn’t just for laughs-it’s a reflection of real trust, and that trust was on display when tensions rose in Phoenix.
Bueckers steps in during rising heat with Sabally
In what should’ve been a celebratory night for the Wings with Bueckers posting a career-high 35 points, it instead turned into another tough loss, and an emotional flashpoint for Carrington. The matchup against the Mercury marked her return to the court following the passing of her grandfather, and the emotional weight was evident.
Carrington picked up two early fouls and played with edge throughout the night, locked into a competitive battle with Phoenix’s Satou Sabally.
Sabally, known for her aggressive play, tallied five personal fouls herself. But the real fireworks came after the final buzzer, when Carrington made her way toward the Mercury’s huddle, seemingly intent on confronting Sabally.
As cameras swiveled in, Bueckers sprang into action, quietly positioning herself between Carrington and the cameras, shielding her teammate from unwanted attention and potential league scrutiny.
Bueckers‘ presence didn’t just block the shot; it sent a message. The rookie was playing peacemaker, calmly urging Carrington to walk away with a light-hearted jab: “Let’s go this way… we stink.”
Though Carrington and Sabally shared a hug near the Mercury bench moments later, the tension wasn’t gone. In the postgame handshake line, the chirping reignited. Heated words flew between players, leading to a brief scuffle that required intervention from teammates and staff on both sides.
For Carrington, it marked another emotional flashpoint in a season that’s been as turbulent off the court as it has been disappointing on it. For Bueckers, it was another example of her leadership and emotional intelligence.
Read the full article here
