When you feel victory is already secured and it slips away at the last moment, the frustration is immense. That is precisely what happened to the Dallas Wings, who seemed on the verge of clinching a win against the Los Angeles Sparks. But Kelsey Plum had envisioned a different ending for her team on their home court.
Los Angeles trailed with only seconds remaining. Yet, in what felt like a movie script, Plum came off the bench and delivered the decisive shot that not only sealed the Sparks’ dramatic 81-80 victory but also brought the entire arena to its feet in celebration.
Following the electrifying finish, team owner and former Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson wasted no time sharing his excitement on X.
A magical ending for my @LASparks last night vs. Dallas! Kelsey Plum hit the game-winning shot in the 81-80 victory over the Wings!
Just seconds earlier, Paige Bueckers had put Dallas ahead with a crucial basket that appeared destined to be the winner. However, fate dictated that the final word would belong to the home team, thanks to Plum’s clutch heroics.
Magic Johnson’s praise for Bueckers
Although the Wings faltered in the closing moments and could not withstand Plum’s last strike, Johnson also highlighted the extraordinary performance of Paige Bueckers, who stole the spotlight despite being on the losing side. The rookie delivered an astonishing 44 points, setting a new standard for first-year players in the league.
I have to give Paige Bueckers some love for hitting 44 points in last night’s game, the most points by a rookie in WNBA history and the most points in a game by any player this season!
Dallas Wings continue to struggle
Despite Bueckers’ dazzling night against Los Angeles, the Wings’ season remains in shambles. The team suffered yet another defeat, dropping their record to 9-27 in the 2025 campaign.
From the start of the season, things have not gone according to plan, and drastic changes may be necessary if the franchise hopes to retain Bueckers. With her talent and poise, especially as a rookie, it is almost certain that championship-contending franchises will make every effort to lure her away if Dallas cannot provide a competitive environment.
With only a handful of games remaining, the Wings’ season is essentially lost. Still, they can attempt to salvage some pride by improving a record that currently ranks among the league’s worst.
Here are the upcoming games for the Dallas Wings:
- August 22: vs. Seattle Storm
- August 24: vs. Golden State Valkyries
- August 27: vs. Connecticut Sun
- August 29: at Atlanta Dream
- September 1: at Minnesota Lynx
- September 4: at Golden State Valkyries
- September 7: at Los Angeles Sparks
- September 11: vs. Phoenix Mercury
The lingering question is whether the Wings can turn their morale around and close the season with more victories. It seems unlikely, as confidence appears to be slipping, but in sports, the unexpected can always happen.
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