Paige Bueckers made her much-anticipated WNBA debut Friday night as the Dallas Wings faced off against the reigning champion Las Vegas Aces. The No. 1 overall pick in last month’s draft finished with 10 points in 23 minutes, but the night ended in disappointment for the Wings, who were routed 112-78.
Bueckers started the game and looked poised early, scoring four points in her first seven minutes by making two of her three shots in the opening quarter. While the team struggled to keep pace with the dominant Aces, Bueckers showed flashes of her trademark poise and scoring touch that made her a star at UConn.
The 34-point loss was a stark contrast to her collegiate success exactly double the combined 17-point margin of defeat UConn experienced in their three losses during a 37-3 national championship season.
Despite the tough result, Bueckers remained upbeat following her debut. “It was super surreal in terms of the turnaround from where I was two weeks ago to where I am today,” she said. “But I am just soaking it up and enjoying every moment.”
Now transitioning to professional life, Bueckers acknowledged the challenges of adapting to new surroundings. “I’m getting used to new routines, traditions, new teammates, new organization,” she added. “I’m excited to play basketball again with this new group.”
While the team result wasn’t ideal, Bueckers’ performance provided a glimpse of the potential she brings to the WNBA. With time, the Wings will look to build chemistry and bounce back, while Bueckers continues to grow into her role as a franchise cornerstone.
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