The Dallas Wings didn’t expect to be 1-7 heading into June. Not after drafting Paige Bueckers No. 1 overall, not after signing solid veterans like DiJonai Carrington and NaLyssa Smith, and definitely not after bringing in new head coach Chris Koclanes.
But here they are-still trying to find rhythm, identity, and wins.
Bueckers has done her part, at least statistically. She’s averaging 14.7 points, 4.7 boards, and 6.7 assists. Unfortunately, none of it has translated into much-needed victories. And with Bueckers in concussion protocol and out for Friday’s game against the Sparks, questions about the Wings’ leadership core are bubbling up.
Lisa Leslie Says It’s Time for Paige to Speak Up-Even as a Rookie
On a recent episode of her Between the Lines show, WNBA legend Lisa Leslie addressed Bueckers directly.
“She knows what championship status is,” Leslie said.“She’s had a great coach in Geno Auriemma. And you don’t have to wait a year, just because you’re a rookie, to use your voice.”
It was a personal moment. Leslie shared a story about being told as a USC freshman to lead her older teammates-not through pep talks, but through how she practiced, how she carried herself. That’s what she wants from Bueckers now.
“Show them by how you show up. Stay after practice. Let them see what needs to happen,” she added.
Bueckers already earned that kind of trust at UConn, leading the Huskies to an NCAA title. Her former coach, Auriemma, told The Athletic last year that “Paige has always been a coach on the floor.” So maybe it’s not about if she can lead-it’s about whether she’s ready to lead a WNBA team still finding its way.
Leadership doesn’t always come in a huddle. Sometimes it starts with the way you walk into the gym.
And in Dallas, where frustration is rising and expectations were high, that kind of presence might be just what this team needs.
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