Paige Bueckers, who had a standout college career at UConn under Geno Auriemma, is now making waves in the WNBA despite the Dallas Wings’ difficulties this season. With the Wings holding a 7-17 record and sitting last in the Western Conference, playoff chances are slim, yet Bueckers continues to shine by joining Caitlin Clark in setting rookie records.
During a recent game at Climate Pledge Arena against the Seattle Storm, Dallas fought back from a 10-point deficit in the second quarter to take control in the third with a 9-0 run. Dallas secured an 87-63 victory, led by four-time All-Star Arike Ogunbowale’s 20 points. Bueckers added 14 points and six assists, matching Ogunbowale’s influence on the floor with a plus/minus of +19.
Although Bueckers’ scoring was below her usual numbers that night, she reached a historic achievement by tying Caitlin Clark as the fastest player in WNBA history to accumulate 300 points and 100 assists, highlighting her swift impact in the professional league.
Obstacles Faced by Both Up-and-Coming WNBA Stars
Injuries have disrupted the 2024-25 seasons for both Clark and Bueckers, complicating matters for their respective teams, the Indiana Fever and Dallas Wings. Both players are adjusting to new head coaches — Chris Koclanes with Dallas and Stephanie White with Indiana — while carrying heavy offensive responsibilities.
Bueckers has demonstrated her rising star potential, having matched Clark’s early-season performance before. In May, she joined elite company by registering at least 15 points, 8 assists, 5 rebounds, 3 steals, and 3 blocks in a single game, alongside Clark, Candace Parker, and Angel McCoughtry.
Despite Bueckers’ personal progress, the Wings have struggled to find consistent success under Coach Koclanes, who is still seeking the right approach to harness the team’s potential. How Dallas closes out the season remains uncertain as Bueckers continues to develop her presence in the league.
Implications for the Future of Rookie Performance in the WNBA
Paige Bueckers joining Caitlin Clark in rookie record discussions underscores a significant moment for the WNBA, signaling the arrival of a new generation of talent capable of shifting team dynamics despite organizational struggles. Their race for records amid injury hurdles and coaching transitions reflects both individual promise and broader challenges within their teams.
As the season progresses, monitoring how Bueckers and Clark influence their squads will be key to understanding the trajectory of these promising rookies and the future competitiveness of the Wings and Fever. Their continued success or setbacks could shape team strategies and the overall landscape of the league in upcoming years.
“Paige Bueckers carved out a legendary college career at UConn, but her transition to professional basketball tells a different story.” —Source
“Dallas won, 87-63, with Arike Ogunbowale leading the charge.” —Source
“While Bueckers didn’t reach her usual scoring output that night, she achieved something more significant.” —Source
“This marks the second time the Dallas star has matched Clark’s achievements.” —Source
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why was Caitlin Clark sitting with Taylor Swift?
A. Clark watched the Chiefs’ playoff game against the Houston Texans with Swift at Arrowhead Stadium on Saturday. This marked their first appearance together at a game. Clark mentioned that Swift had invited her to attend earlier this season.
Q. Why is Caitlin Clark sitting with Taylor?
A. In an interview in December, Caitlin Clark shared that Taylor Swift asked her to join her for a Kansas City Chiefs game. It seems Clark accepted the offer. Photos show Clark and Swift watching the Chiefs-Texans playoff game at Arrowhead Stadium on January 18.
Q. What did Taylor Swift give Caitlin Clark?
A. When Caitlin Clark attended Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour concert in Indianapolis in 2024, she received a special gift from Taylor. Taylor Swift gave her every T-shirt and sweatshirt from the tour. Caitlin went home with four bags filled with Eras Tour merchandise.
Q. Is Caitlin Clark hanging out with Taylor Swift?
A. Clark mentioned that she and Swift “had a great time” at the playoff game in Kansas City, describing it as the “ideal game” to attend with Swift. She added, “It’s really nice to see how thrilled she is about the Chiefs,” and shared, “Experiencing that with her made me feel so happy.”