LA Sparks edge Dallas Wings 81-80 as Bueckers ties WNBA rookie scoring record

In a thrilling WNBA matchup, the Los Angeles Sparks edged out the Dallas Wings 81-80, spoiling rookie Paige Bueckers' historic 44-point performance, which tied the WNBA rookie scoring record set by Cynthia Cooper in 1997. Kelsey Plum sealed the victory with a buzzer-beating left-handed floater off a high screen, showcasing the Sparks' trust in her clutch playmaking. Despite Bueckers' scoring outburst, including a perfect 17-of-21 shooting and 4-for-4 from three-point range, the Sparks' defense struggled but ultimately managed to hold on. The Sparks, holding a 17-18 record, remain in playoff contention though their defense, ranked second-worst in the league, poses a significant challenge moving forward. Dallas, now 9-27, was eliminated from playoff contention following the loss, marking their third straight defeat. The game highlighted both the offensive prowess of the Sparks' core players like Plum, Rickea Jackson, and Dearica Hamby and the defensive vulnerabilities that could affect their postseason hopes.