WNBA
Paige Bueckers Via Pinterest

Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers is making headlines in her rookie WNBA season. Despite the team's early struggles, she's proving herself as one of the league's brightest new stars, both on and off the court.

How Bueckers Became the Top Rookie to Watch in 2025

Chosen first overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft, Bueckers joined a Dallas Wings side undergoing a major rebuild. While the team has opened the season with a disappointing 1–7 record, her personal performances have exceeded expectations.

In just six games, the 22-year-old is averaging:

  • 14.7 points
  • 6.7 assists
  • 4.5 rebounds
  • 2.0 steals

According to Sports Illustrated, she leads all rookies in Player Efficiency Rating, a key indicator of her all-round value. Her output stands well above the rookie average of 9.8 points and 3.4 assists per game.

Bueckers' Breakout Night That Delivered the First Win

The Wings secured their first win of the season, a 109–87 victory over the Connecticut Sun. Thanks largely to Bueckers' best performance yet. She posted 21 points, seven assists, and five rebounds, while shooting a stunning 80% from the floor.

'I just stayed ready and trusted the work I've put in', she said post-match.

Her poise under pressure and masterful control of the game were instrumental in breaking the team's frustrating losing streak, inspiring teammates and energising fans alike.

Why Her Leadership Is Already Turning Heads

Despite being a newcomer, Bueckers plays with the confidence of a seasoned professional. WNBA legend Diana Taurasi remarked: 'She's going to be the best player in the league, for sure'.

She's already become a leader in the Wings' locker room:

  • Her turnover rate is just 9.4%, among the lowest for WNBA starting guards.
  • She directs the offence with calm and precision.
  • Coaches praise her ability to "orchestrate plays like a veteran."

Promoting Mental Health as Part of Her Game

Off the court, Bueckers is leading a different kind of charge, speaking openly about mental health in women's sport. She's discussed her own experience with sports psychologists and regularly encourages others to seek support.

'People think strength is hiding how you feel. I've learned real strength is honesty', she told a team media outlet.

The WNBA Players Association reports that 38% of players now access mental health services, more than double the 17% who did so in 2022.

A Concussion Highlights Just How Valuable She Is

Bueckers was recently placed in concussion protocol following a clash during a game against the Chicago Sky. Without her, the Wings lost two straight games. In an 83–77 defeat to the Seattle Storm, the team's assist tally fell by 41%, highlighting the gap left in her absence.

Why Paige Bueckers Is More Than Just a Rising Star

Her influence goes beyond statistics. Bueckers combines skill and leadership with social awareness, a rare trio in a rookie.

What she brings:

  • Talent under pressure
  • Strategic intelligence
  • Emotional honesty
  • Unmatched court vision

A Rookie Shaping the Future of Women's Basketball

Paige Bueckers' WNBA journey is only just beginning, but she's already making a difference. Her combination of talent, maturity, and advocacy ensures she's not only winning games, she's winning hearts.

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