Paige Bueckers made her WNBA debut as one of the most anticipated rookies in league history. Selected first overall by the Dallas Wings in the 2025 WNBA Draft, Bueckers was widely considered the most talented prospect available.
Her arrival has sparked excitement, but both the rookie and her team have faced early struggles. The Wings have won only five of their first 18 games, landing last in the Western Conference standings.
Bueckers, meanwhile, has seen action in just 13 of those contests as she works through a persistent injury that has challenged her since high school.
Paige Bueckers Still Dealing With Injury Issue
Bueckers last took the court against the Indiana Fever, delivering a standout 27-point performance, especially notable with Caitlin Clark absent. She missed the following game against the Washington Mystics, and recently opened up about the reason for her absence.
Speaking to reporters via Joey Mistretta, Bueckers explained that she has been managing a significant injury since her high school days.
She said, “It’s difficult but at the same time I want to play 40 minutes, I want to play every single game… Just being smart. I’ve been dealing with patellar tendinitis since I was in high school… You’re managing it at all times. There’s no day where it probably doesn’t hurt.”
Paige Bueckers on her injury status: “It’s difficult but at the same time I want to play 40 minutes, I want to play every single game… Just being smart. I’ve been dealing with patellar tendinitis since I was in high school… You’re managing it at all times. There’s no day where…
— Joey Mistretta (@JoeyMistretta_) July 2, 2025
Patellar tendinitis, commonly known as jumper’s knee, is a frequent issue for basketball players at all levels, especially professionals. The injury involves damage to the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shinbone.
Overuse or excessive stress on this area can lead to pain and long-term complications if not properly managed by medical professionals.
Bueckers’ ability to perform at a high level despite this chronic condition is remarkable. Her history as a standout at Hopkins High School, where she averaged 21.4 points per game in her senior year, is well documented.
She was named Gatorade National Player of the Year and Naismith Prep Player of the Year in 2020, highlighting her dominance on the prep scene.
Regarding her recent absence, Bueckers clarified that it was not due to load management, but rather a necessary recovery period for her ongoing knee issue.
The Wings’ next game is against the Phoenix Mercury in Arlington, and fans are eager to see if Bueckers will be back on the court. Her presence could be crucial for a team looking to turn its season around.
