Paige Bueckers had been sidelined with the Dallas Wings following concussion protocol. After being cleared to play on Saturday, she seemed ready to return against the undefeated Minnesota Lynx. However, her absence sowed doubt among her fans.
Recently, Dallas revealed that the rookie is now suffering from an illness serious enough to prevent her from playing. Although no further details about her condition were given, this setback means that fans will have to wait patiently for her return.
Amid a disappointing 1-8 record and with Paige off the court, the young rookie has shown that her presence and leadership have been felt since day one with the Wings and sent a powerful message.
In her conversation with The Dallas Morning News, Bueckers stated that her commitment is to her teammates and that she is looking for ways for her sponsors to support them as well and to seek equality together.
When I met with the agency, I told them my values. I talked about giving back, using the partnerships to do something bigger than myself. It’s really important for me to involve as many teammates as I can.
Bueckers’ criticism
Although the rookie has only been in the WNBA for a few weeks, being selected as the number 1 pick in the draft has given her something to talk about, and her influence has grown as much as her statistics.
Attendance, viewership, and merch sales have all seen a rise since her arrival. That’s why Paige wants her impact to resonate with her teammates who are still fighting to gain visibility.
It’s not just something that’s transactional where [sponsors are] just getting something out of me and I’m getting something out of them. But how can we get something out of trying to make this world a better place within our partnership?
In this way, Paige not only demonstrates her camaraderie and leadership, but also makes it clear that she continues to dazzle with her plays and impact even off the court.
Now, the team is preparing to face the Phoenix Mercury on Wednesday, June 11, at PHX Arena. With or without Paige, Dallas knows it has her support.
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