Paige Bueckers delivered one of the greatest individual performances in WNBA history, scoring 44 points for the Dallas Wings in an 81-80 loss to the Los Angeles Sparks. The rookie guard not only broke the league’s rookie scoring record but also etched her name among the top single-game performances ever recorded.
Historic Shooting Night
Bueckers was nearly flawless, hitting 17 of 21 field goals, including a perfect 4 of 4 from three-point range and 6 of 6 from the free-throw line. She became the first player in WNBA history to score 40 or more points while shooting 80% from the floor. Her 44-point performance is the highest single-game total by a rookie and the most by any player this season, placing her tenth on the all-time scoring list.
Breaking Longstanding Records
The rookie record of 44 points surpasses Candace Parker’s 40-point mark set in 2008 and ties Cynthia Cooper’s inaugural season total from 1997, when all players were technically in their first year. While the overall WNBA single-game record remains 53 points, held by Liz Cambage and A’ja Wilson, Bueckers’ achievement cements her as one of the most impactful rookies in league history.
Team First Mentality
Despite the spotlight, Bueckers emphasized her focus on team success. “I’ve always prided myself and the team on winning, so that’s obviously the main goal,” she said. She credited teammates for creating scoring opportunities, highlighting the contributions of Luisa Geiselsoder and others who set screens and found her in rhythm. Bueckers scored Dallas’ final 13 points but remained quick to share praise.
Reactions and Support
Her performance drew admiration across the league and from teammates. Arike Ogunbowale, sidelined that night, posted “ROY” on social media, signaling confidence in Bueckers as Rookie of the Year. Maddy Siegrist called it an honor to play alongside her. Even Sparks fans cheered her baskets as she neared the record. With just 60 points needed to surpass Ogunbowale’s franchise rookie scoring record of 630 points, Bueckers is on track to rewrite more milestones this season.
A Bittersweet Ending
In the closing moments, Bueckers passed up a contested shot to find Aziaha James for a potential game-sealing three, which missed. The Sparks capitalized, with Kelsey Plum scoring the game-winner at the buzzer. While the outcome was disappointing, Bueckers’ record-setting night highlighted her resilience after years of injuries and underscored her emergence as one of the WNBA’s brightest young stars.
Conclusion
Paige Bueckers’ 44-point masterpiece was not only a historic rookie performance but also a statement of her future impact in the league. Though the Wings fell short against Los Angeles, the game marked the arrival of a new star whose combination of efficiency, leadership, and unselfishness sets her apart in the WNBA.
