Paige Bueckers entered the WNBA, making it clear she came to leave her mark from the very start of her rookie campaign. Though remarkably humble, rarely taking full credit for her individual brilliance, she continues to deliver standout performances even as her team struggles collectively.
One of the most memorable moments came when she scored 44 points against the Los Angeles Sparks, only for the Dallas Wings to lose in the final seconds, leaving her with a bittersweet taste. Although she received praise from analysts and fans alike after the game, Bueckers could not celebrate fully, knowing her team had fallen short.
Despite the frustrations, she remains firmly in the conversation for Rookie of the Year. Evidence of her growing reputation came when Seattle Storm minority owner Sue Bird publicly praised her, saying the young star was on a clear path toward earning that award.
Bueckers’s undeniable talent, combined with her humility and warmth, continues to distinguish her even in a season where team success has been scarce.
I am just focused on moving my foot forward one at a time. How do I get better every single day.
That recent statement from Bueckers reflects not only her professionalism but also her perspective off the court.
Comparison with Caitlin Clark
Although Caitlin Clark has been limited this year by injuries, comparisons between the two remain inevitable, as their versatility and skill make them standouts. On this subject, Bird shared her admiration.
There’s probably going to be a ton of conversation around her numbers as it gets put into historical context, but that’s not at all what has jumped out to me about Paige. Similar to Caitlin last year, it’s been so fun just to watch her play. It’s been fun to watch her learn and adjust to the WNBA in real time. It’s fun to watch her get loose a little bit, like when she hit that step-back 3 in front of Kyrie. It’s also been fun to watch her grow into her pro game.
From her earliest games, Bueckers has steadily gained confidence, pulling off plays that seem improbable, stealing the ball under pressure or scoring while surrounded by defenders.
She is the only player ranked in the league’s Top 10 for points, assists, and steals, proof of her ability to elevate teammates as much as herself.
A bright spot in Dallas
The Dallas Wings’ season has been disastrous, but their rookie has become a rare source of light. Bird underscored this impact with high praise.
The best compliment you can give a player, especially coming from someone like me who gets to go to WNBA games for free, is that I would actually pay to watch them (Paige Bueckers and Caitlin Clark) play.
The Wings look to finish strong
With playoff hopes gone, Dallas seeks to close the season with determination in its four remaining games, setting the stage for a stronger campaign next year.
Bueckers missed the previous contest due to illness but is expected to return against the Atlanta Dream.
I remember Steph Curry before the Warriors became the Warriors, like he tweeted out like just stick with us, like we’re going to figure it out. Like that’s the message. Like the people we have here and the belief that I have in like the core and the pieces that we’re building and how we’re doing it.
Bueckers said.
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