Paige Bueckers Shines Beyond Stat Sheet in Wings’ Nail-Biting Win originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
The Dallas Wings defeated the Indiana Fever 81-80 on Tuesday night at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
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Superstar guard Paige Bueckers finished the game with 16 points, eight rebounds, five assists and two steals. Although Bueckers didn’t display her usual scoring efficiency, shooting just 6-of-19 from the field, she still made a positive impact in multiple other facets of the game.
Wings head coach Chris Koclanes took notice of the rookie guard’s poise and leadership throughout the game.
“You look at that, 6-19, not her best game, most efficient from the field, but those eight assists, and with Arike out, just shouldered such a load. That gets to you when we’re asking you to make play after play after play… Just an incredible rookie,” Koclanes said.
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Bueckers has scored in double figures in every professional game she’s played in and has lived up to the hype of being the first overall pick.
According to WNBA legend Candace Parker, the former UConn star should be the favorite to win WNBA Rookie of the Year this season, as Bueckers has consistently showcased her high basketball IQ and all-around game.
“Back in July, Paige became the first player in WNBA history to total 350 points, 100 assists in the first 20 games of their career,” Parker said. “And so Paige is having herself a season. I think it’s just a matter of her being on the court, is what all of us want to see. So this could be interesting. I think I give the nod to Paige Bueckers for Rookie of the Year, but Sonia, make me change my ways.”
Bueckers’ rookie campaign is shaping up to be the foundation of what could be a legendary career.
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 13, 2025, where it first appeared.
