Historic Night for the Rookie Star
Paige Bueckers delivered one of the greatest performances in WNBA history on Wednesday night, scoring 44 points in the Dallas Wings’ narrow 81-80 loss to the Los Angeles Sparks. The top draft pick broke the league’s rookie scoring record, surpassing Candace Parker’s 40 points from 2008. Bueckers’ total was also the highest single-game output by any player this season and tied for 10th on the all-time scoring list.
Efficiency That Made History
Bueckers’ scoring feat was not only about volume but also remarkable efficiency. She hit 17 of 21 shots, went 4-for-4 from three-point range, and converted all six of her free throws. That made her the first player in league history to record 40 or more points while shooting 80% from the field. Alongside her scoring, she added four rebounds and three assists, reinforcing her all-around impact.
Team Focus Despite Record
Despite the record-setting performance, Bueckers emphasized her focus on winning. “I’ve always prided myself and the team on winning so that’s obviously the main goal,” she said after the game. She credited her teammates, particularly Luisa Geiselsoder for setting screens and creating open looks. Dallas fans and even Sparks supporters recognized the magnitude of the moment, cheering as she closed in on history.
Recognition and Future Milestones
Teammates and rivals alike praised the rookie’s performance. Arike Ogunbowale, who holds the Wings’ rookie scoring record of 630 points, called her “ROY” on social media, while teammate Maddy Siegrist wrote, “Unreal. honored to play with you.” Bueckers is now just 60 points away from Ogunbowale’s franchise mark. While the Wings fell short in the final seconds, with Los Angeles veteran Kelsey Plum scoring the game-winner, the night cemented Bueckers as one of the league’s brightest young stars.