Paige Bueckers — the Dallas Wings’ No. 1 overall draft pick — was the talk of the town before her WNBA debut.
Not only were fans cheering on for some healthy comparison with Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark, but also reinstating everyone’s faith in Dallas basketball.
Bueckers made a respectable debut against the Las Vegas Aces, scoring 10 points, four rebounds, and one assist in the game. The Aces won 112-78, with Jackie Young leading her team with 28 points, five rebounds, and nine assists.
Paige Bueckers Is Yet To Consider Herself a Celebrity Athlete
A former UConn Huskies star, Bueckers is easily one of the most celebrated college basketball players. Fans were excited after Bueckers declared for the draft, hoping to see a younger and talented group switch to the professional league.
Paige Bueckers
"There was not a lot of time to prepare…just leaning on what's gotten me here and build on that…I don't see myself as a celebrity at all. Just a basketball player."
— Moreau Sports Media Prod Co. (@MoreauSportsCo) May 3, 2025
Bueckers, discussing her fame during the preseason clash, said:
Bueckers Was More Than Happy After ‘Surreal’ WNBA Debut
Though the Aces might have spoiled Bueckers’ debut and Arike Ogunbowale’s homecoming game, Bueckers remains hyped for the upcoming 2025 campaign.
Despite the blowout loss, the Wings guard is determined to soak it all in.
“It’s super surreal in terms of the turnaround from where I was two weeks ago to where I am today,” Bueckers said (via ESPN). “But just soaking it up, enjoying every moment, getting used to new routines, traditions, new teammates, new organization, and just excited to play basketball again with this new group.”
Furthermore, Bueckers — who received the biggest cheers — was aware that this wasn’t UConn playing Notre Dame. Describing the feeling, she added:
“It wasn’t UConn playing Notre Dame, so you expect a little bit different energy from the crowd, but just this environment, I thought it was a great idea to come back and have preseason games at college campuses. Hopefully, we can do one at UConn.”
Obviously, a game at UConn during preseason would be extra special for Bueckers. The Wings face The Toyota Antelopes for their second preseason game on Saturday, May 10 at College Park Center in Arlington, TX.