Paige Bueckers is no stranger to the spotlight. Since her days as a UConn Huskies star, the Dallas Wings guard has mastered the art of handling pressure – a skill proving invaluable now as fans and media search for answers to the team’s painful collapse.
Like any first-overall pick, Bueckers entered the league carrying sky-high expectations. Many believed she would be the cornerstone of a swift rebuild starting this season. Instead, reality has been far harsher.
With the Wings mired in second-to-last place at 8-24, all eyes have shifted to Bueckers. But the former Huskies phenom knows exactly how to block out the noise and focus on the task at hand.
Paige on coping with pressure
At a recent press conference, Bueckers was asked how she deals with the expectations surrounding her. Without hesitation, she replied:
“Basically by not paying attention to any other expectations that people put on me.”
The Wings point guard stressed that her sole focus is being “the best version of myself I can be for my team every single day.” She also brushed aside comparisons to other stars – especially Caitlin Clark.
“Comparison is the thief of joy,” she said firmly.
Bueckers added that her priority is personal and team growth: “How I can improve myself, how we can improve the team… I’m just building with the team here, trying to get better every day. Expectations are a narrative the media creates. I’m not letting outside sources in.”
Bueckers still among the best in the WNBA
Despite the Wings‘ struggles, analysts agree Bueckers is far from the problem. Her 18.5 points per game rank seventh in the league, and she’s ninth in assists with 5.3 per contest.
The criticism has instead shifted toward first-year head coach Chris Koclanes. Still, the rookie coach retains the support of his players – and for now, the front office. Whether the team can salvage the season remains to be seen, but one thing’s certain: Paige Bueckers is determined to write her own story.
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