JUST IN: Paige Bueckers Faces Challenges in WNBA Preseason Debut as Wings Fall to Aces in South Bend…
Paige Bueckers, the Dallas Wings’ No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, made her highly anticipated preseason debut on Friday, May 2, at Notre Dame’s Purcell Pavilion in South Bend, Indiana. However, the game did not go as hoped for Bueckers or her team, as the Wings suffered a 112–78 loss to the Las Vegas Acess.
Bueckers, a former UConn star and 2025 NCAA champion, showcased flashes of her renowned scoring ability during the game. She finished with 10 points, four rebounds, one assist, and three fouls in 23 minutes of play. Her performance included a strong first quarter where she scored four points, followed by a challenging second quarter where she missed all her shot attempts. She rebounded in the second half, hitting two three-pointers and finishing the game with a 4-for-7 shooting performance .([CT Insider][2])
Despite the loss, Bueckers expressed optimism about her development and the team’s progress. She emphasized her commitment to gradual improvement and dismissed external expectations, focusing on her growth and the team’s development. Head coach Chris Koclanes echoed this sentiment, highlighting the need for patience as the team adjusts to new leadership and a revamped roster .([CT Insider][2])
The Wings, who finished the 2024 season with a 9–31 record, have undergone significant changes, including the hiring of new head coach Chris Koclanes and the addition of Bueckers, along with other offseason acquisitions. The team’s roster now includes four-time All-Star Arike Ogunbowale, promising forward Maddy Siegrist, and veteran guard Tyasha Harris, aiming to build a more competitive squad .([CT Insider][2], [CT Insider][3])
While the preseason loss to the Aces was a setback, it provided valuable experience for Bueckers and her teammates. The Wings will look to build on this experience as they continue to prepare for the regular season, focusing on developing chemistry and refining their play under new leadership. Fans can look forward to watching Bueckers and the Wings as they aim to turn the page on a challenging season and work towards a brighter future.
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