In the final game of her rookie season, Paige Bueckers delivered the kind of performance that defines a season, scoring 24 points with 8 rebounds and 7 assists in the Dallas Wings’ 97–76 win over the Phoenix Mercury. That performance pushed Bueckers to 692 points this season, placing her 3rd all-time among WNBA rookies in scoring, ahead of A’ja Wilson. She also climbed into the top 3 in rookie assists (194), surpassing Sue Bird’s (191).
Unlike many rookies who shine in spurts, Bueckers was consistent throughout. She scored in double figures in every game, highlighted by a 44-point eruption against the Sparks in August, which was the highest single-game total by a rookie this season.
Individual Excellence in a Rebuilding Season
What makes Bueckers’ stats more impressive is the environment she produced them. Dallas finished the season 10–34, tied for the league’s worst record. Yet Bueckers averaged 19.2 points, 5.4 assists, and 1.6 steals while leading all rookies in efficiency and minutes. She wasn’t buoyed by a veteran-heavy roster or a system designed around her. She was often the focal point of opposing defenses, and still found ways to score, create plays, and lead. For a franchise in transition, her rookie season wasn’t just about individual accolades. It was solid proof that Dallas has a centerpiece to build around.
Surpassing UConn Legends
Comparisons to UConn’s long line of WNBA greats were inevitable the day she declared for the draft. What few expected was how quickly she’d exceed some of their benchmarks. Surpassing A’ja Wilson in rookie scoring and Sue Bird in rookie assists doesn’t just nod to her all-around game, it shows she’s redefining what a guard can contribute from day one.
Bird, who went on to become the WNBA’s all-time assists leader with 3,234 career assists, set the gold standard for point guard excellence. This new record for Bueckers speaks volumes about her career trajectory. While Bird took time to establish herself as a floor general, Bueckers showcased her ability to run an offense at the highest level right off the bat.
Looking at other WNBA greats, Candace Parker proved that a rookie could dominate as the best player on the floor. Bueckers just proved a rookie guard could do the same while carrying a struggling franchise. I believe that’s the bigger test of greatness, and she passed it in year one. Her efficiency, leadership, and ability to elevate teammates make her trajectory clear. Paige Bueckers is not simply a rookie star. She’s a foundational player with the ceiling of a franchise-changer.