The Dallas Wings endured another challenging night as they lost by 30 points to the Phoenix Mercury, dropping their season record to 6-14. Despite the team’s difficulties, rookie Paige Bueckers has stood out by setting new benchmarks, continuing to make headlines with her impressive statistics. Bueckers’ recent performances have cemented her reputation, as she matches elite WNBA rookie records previously set only by Caitlin Clark.
Joining Caitlin Clark in a Prestigious WNBA Rookie Club
During the Wings’ latest encounter with the Mercury, Bueckers played her 15th WNBA game, marking a key moment in her young career. She is now one of only two players in league history to average more than 15 points and five assists per game over their first 15 games. Bueckers currently posts averages of 18.2 points and 5.5 assists, achievements that underscore her rapid adaptation to the professional level.
Paige Bueckers in 15 career games:
18.2 PPG
4.2 RPG
5.5 APG
2.6 STL + BLK
47/35/88%
Joins Caitlin Clark as the only players to average 15+ PPG & 5+ APG through first 15 games. pic.twitter.com/adMbsHP3TS
— Polymarket Hoops (@PolymarketHoops) July 8, 2025
Her statistical line also highlights contributions beyond scoring and passing, including 4.2 rebounds per game and 2.6 combined steals and blocks, with shooting splits of 47 percent from the field, 35 percent from three-point range, and 88 percent from the free-throw line. These numbers place Bueckers and Clark in an exclusive category, demonstrating their exceptional skill and productivity from the start of their careers.
Unique Achievement in Context of WNBA History
The accomplishment is even more remarkable given that some of the most celebrated guards in WNBA history, such as Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird, never matched these dual averages during their rookie years. Bueckers and Clark have both acknowledged the league’s demanding physicality, which makes their early success particularly notable. The fact that they have managed such strong performance metrics signals the arrival of a new generation of elite guards in the WNBA.
Potential Renewed Rivalry as Clark Returns from Injury
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert is likely encouraged by Bueckers’ rise, which provides a formidable challenge to Caitlin Clark’s dominance. While other players, like Angel Reese of the Chicago Sky, were once highlighted as Clark’s main rivals, differences in position and playing style, as well as Reese’s struggles to maintain pace, have lessened that narrative’s strength. Having emerged from the same collegiate recruiting class, Bueckers and Clark share a longstanding competitive history.
The possibility of a head-to-head confrontation between Bueckers and Clark looms as Clark is expected to make her return after missing five games due to a groin injury. This will mark their first matchup inside the WNBA since Clark’s team, the Fever, last faced the Wings with Clark sidelined. Their upcoming clash is highly anticipated and may define rookie rivalries for the season.
Implications for the WNBA’s Future and Player Development
Paige Bueckers’ trajectory indicates a bright future for her and for the league, as her record-matching performance alongside Caitlin Clark highlights the high level of talent being introduced to the WNBA. Their ongoing duel not only elevates the competitive standard but also draws significant attention to the league’s growth. The emergence of rookies who can immediately impact games bodes well for the WNBA’s popularity and competitive balance moving forward.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why was Caitlin Clark sitting with Taylor Swift?
A. Clark watched the Chiefs’ playoff game against the Houston Texans at Arrowhead Stadium on Saturday in the same suite as Swift. This was the first time they attended a game together, as Clark mentioned Swift invited her to join earlier this season.
Q. Why is Taylor Swift sitting with Caitlin Clark?
A. Taylor Swift was spotted sitting beside WNBA player Caitlin Clark at a Chiefs game against the Houston Texans. Clark sat in Swift’s suite shortly after sharing that the singer had asked her to join her at a Chiefs game.