Since being selected as the number one overall pick in the WNBA Draft, Paige Bueckers has quickly become the face of the Dallas Wings. But more than just a marketing figure, she has taken the team on her shoulders, demonstrating from day one that she came to lead the franchise. Gradually, she’s making that intention a reality, and she currently stands as the clear frontrunner for the Rookie of the Year award.
However, that has not been enough for the Wings, who have struggled throughout the season to put together the necessary wins to improve their standing and stay within reach of the postseason. Despite Bueckers’ undeniable talent and commitment, the team’s results have left much to be desired.
Dallas’ season has been frustrating at best
Bueckers has done everything within her power, but basketball is a team sport, and individual brilliance rarely translates to consistent victories. Inside the Wings’ locker room, there are few signs that the team knows how to fix its issues or improve its chemistry moving forward.
With a record of 8-22, the Wings currently sit in 12th place in the WNBA standings-far from playoff contention. The team remains in intensive preparation as they gear up to face the New York Liberty again, marking their second matchup in just four days. That game is scheduled for Friday, August 9.
Bueckers misses practice
Things took a concerning turn on Thursday when reports out of Texas confirmed that Bueckers did not participate in team practice. Her absence immediately sparked speculation that she might not be available for Friday’s game against the Liberty, a blow that could significantly impact the Wings’ already difficult campaign.
Up to this point, Bueckers has been playing through lingering back discomfort, which she hoped wouldn’t interfere with her availability. But now, that hope appears uncertain, and the team is taking things day by day when it comes to evaluating her status for the next game.
In her most recent performance against the Liberty, Bueckers delivered a strong showing with 21 points, eight rebounds, and four assists. If she’s unavailable for the rematch, the Wings would be forced to compete without their top performer,an outcome that could spell disaster.
So far this season, Paige has averaged an impressive 18.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game. She leads the team in both scoring and assists and adds solid defensive contributions with 1.8 steals and 0.6 blocks per contest.
That’s why news of her absence from practice has raised concern among fans and analysts alike. The stakes are high, and her health will be a key factor in whether Dallas can salvage anything from a season that has, so far, been deeply disappointing.
As the situation unfolds, Wings supporters are holding out hope that Bueckers’ setback is only temporary, and that she’ll be cleared to return to the court soon. Her presence is more than symbolic-she’s the engine of the team. Without her, Dallas faces an even steeper uphill battle.
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