Paige Bueckers Scores Career-High 35 Points in Dallas Wings Loss to Phoenix Mercury

Paige Bueckers, the Dallas Wings' rookie and No. 1 overall WNBA draft pick, made a remarkable return to the court after missing four games due to concussion protocol and illness, scoring a career-high 35 points with five three-pointers against the Phoenix Mercury. Despite her dominant performance, including six rebounds and four assists, the Wings lost 93-80, extending their losing streak to six games and falling to a 1-10 season record. Bueckers' effort was praised by opponents and highlighted as a bright spot in a struggling Dallas team, which suffered from poor shooting overall, with the rest of the Wings going 16 of 48 from the field. Key contributors like Arike Ogunbowale struggled significantly, shooting 2-of-10 for 10 points, and team dynamics appeared to falter as players failed to adhere to the coach's game plan, contributing to the loss. Phoenix capitalized on this disarray, shooting 42.9% from three-point range and hitting 15 threes, while Dallas's offensive support outside of Bueckers was insufficient. The Wings will look to improve in their next game against the Las Vegas Aces, hoping to end their losing streak.