ARLINGTON, Texas — Paige Bueckers entered the WNBA with the burden of expectations that often crush young players.

Instead, she thrived.

Selected No. 1 overall in the 2025 draft , the Dallas Wings guard not only shouldered the hopes of rebuilding the Wings franchise but also established herself as one of the most electrifying rookies the league has ever seen.

Her final performance of the year on Thursday was the perfect capstone. In a 97–76 victory over the Phoenix Mercury , Bueckers put on a masterclass: 24 points, eight rebounds, seven assists, two blocks, one steal, and two three-pointers in 30 minutes. It was a fitting conclusion to a season that blended scoring brilliance, playmaking vision, and defensive grit.

Paige Bueckers on joining elite company after a historic rookie s

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