Player Paige Bueckers not only confirmed her status as a generational superstar by winning the 2025 WNBA Rookie of the Year award, she also experienced an unforgettable moment thanks to league commissioner Cathy Engelbert, who surprised her live on a television set.
The Dallas Wings guard was invited to The Jennifer Hudson Show, where she expected to have a regular interview. However, upon entering the stage, she was met by Engelbert holding the ROTY trophy. With a smile, the commissioner said: “I bet I’m the last person you expected to see in this tunnel. But I’m here to present you with the 2025 Kia WNBA Rookie of the Year award.”
The moment quickly went viral on social media, showing Bueckers emotional and grateful as she received the recognition. With a simple “thank you,” the young star made it clear that humility is part of her identity.
Historic season with the Dallas Wings
Paige Bueckers’ impact in her first year was immediate. In 36 games as a starter, she averaged 19.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, 5.4 assists, and 1.6 steals in 33.3 minutes per game, breaking several rookie records for the franchise. Her brightest performance came on August 20, when she scored 44 points against the Los Angeles Sparks-a mark that is now part of Dallas history.
With this achievement, she joins Allisha Gray as the only Wings players to win this award, solidifying her name as the cornerstone of the project.
Bueckers’ message of gratitude
After receiving the award, the former UConn star emphasized that this recognition reflects a collective effort: “I’ve always felt that individual awards are a way to recognize the team around you. My teammates, coaches, and the entire Dallas Wings staff made this possible.”
Although Bueckers shined, the Wings had a disappointing season, with only 10 wins and missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year. The challenge now is to surround their new star with elite talent to compete at the highest level.
With higher expectations and potential reinforcements on the way, 2026 is shaping up to be a key year to see if Paige Bueckers can lead the Dallas Wings into playoff contention.
Read the full article here
