Paige Bueckers has been under intense scrutiny since her WNBA debut, but it is her candidness and humor that have endeared her even to her opponents. After scoring 22 points in a close game at the American Airlines Center, Dallas Wings rookie Bueckers sparked a lighthearted exchange with Indiana Fever veteran Sophie Cunningham that gave fans a peek into her genuine personality.
During the game on a Friday night, Bueckers executed a slick left cut and banked in a shot, drawing cheers from the crowd. On returning to her defender, she admitted,
Hey, I traveled on that last one.
Cunningham replied with a smile,
You know, I kind of thought you did.
The back-and-forth continued when Cunningham described a foul call later in the game:
“They called it. And I told our coaches to challenge it. I think she [Bueckers] was like, ‘Yeah, they should have challenged that.’ I was like, ‘I know. They never listen to me.’”
This exchange, as Cunningham shared on her podcast Show Me Something, showed a playful camaraderie between the rookie and veteran, underscoring the respect Bueckers commands.
How Paige Bueckers Is Shaping the Discussion Around WNBA Rookies
Moments like these highlight why Paige Bueckers is widely seen not only as the leading candidate for WNBA Rookie of the Year but also one of the most admired young players in the league. Despite the Dallas Wings’ struggles with securing wins this season, Bueckers’ contributions stand out both statistically and in her evident ability to connect with players across teams.
Sophie Cunningham expressed admiration for Bueckers, saying,
She’s probably gonna get Rookie of the Year, as she should,
before adding,
I love her. No, I don’t really have a relationship with her off the court. But I just, like, love her vibe and her energy. Like, I just think that she is a good freaking human. She really is, she’s just, like, a great teammate and she’s a phenomenal leader… I am all for that.
Bueckers leads her rookie class in key categories including points, assists, and steals per game. Her advanced metrics are equally impressive, boasting a league-best 20.9 player efficiency rating and a 13.4 player impact estimate, which place her at the forefront of the 2025 WNBA rookies. She has recorded more 20-point games than any other rookie so far and maintains a strong 2.63 assist-to-turnover ratio in a league known for its fast pace and stringent defense.
Despite this success, Bueckers has encountered criticism. Some analysts dismiss her numbers as inflated due to the team’s losing record, while others question her decision-making during critical moments when opponents form double teams. However, those familiar with her game recognize the challenge she faces carrying a team with difficulties and acknowledge how much defenses adapt their strategies to contain her.
The Ongoing Impact of Bueckers on the Dallas Wings and the League
Even with the Dallas Wings experiencing turbulence this season, Paige Bueckers remains a pivotal figure not just for her team but within the broader rookie conversation around the WNBA. Her on-court battles with rivals like Sonia Citron and Kiki Iriafen fuel ongoing debates, yet the respect she earns throughout the league and her statistical dominance affirm her Rookie of the Year credentials.
Looking ahead, Bueckers is set for a highly anticipated rematch against the Indiana Fever on August 12, where she will again face Sophie Cunningham. This matchup promises additional memorable moments and perhaps more of the candid interactions revealed on Cunningham’s podcast.
For now, this glimpse behind the scenes serves as a reminder that the dynamic between players during a game often provides stories as compelling as any captured in the box score, highlighting Bueckers’ role both as a fierce competitor and a relatable, genuine presence in the WNBA.