Paige Bueckers is poised to make her WNBA preseason debut with the Dallas Wings this Friday against the Las Vegas Aces, and the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft is already making a strong impression on her new team.
According to DallasHoopsJournal.com, Bueckers has quickly emerged as a leader during the opening week of Dallas Wings training camp, showcasing her leadership, poise, and smooth integration into head coach Chris Koclanes’ system.
“I admire Paige’s ability to take everything in stride,” Koclanes commented. “Her basketball IQ is incredible, and she hasn’t missed a step since arriving here.”
While Bueckers’ transition to professional basketball has been seamless, she’s still adjusting to her new life in Dallas. Having recently relocated from Connecticut, Bueckers is still settling into her new surroundings.
“My moving truck from Connecticut arrived just yesterday, so I’m still unpacking,” Bueckers shared. “But it’s been great. I love my new place, I’m enjoying being with the team, and the fresh environment is helping me grow both personally and professionally. It’s been an amazing first week.”
At 23, Bueckers has taken on the role of point guard for the Wings, organizing the offense during practice while also showing comfort as an off-the-ball player. She has been praised for her ability to quickly understand the team’s systems and contribute in various game scenarios. Her competitive drive has been evident through extra shooting drills and extended skill work after practice sessions.
“My focus has been on communication and consistency,” Bueckers explained. “I want to earn everyone’s respect with my passion, my heart, and my communication, while building strong chemistry both on and off the court.”
As she prepares for her professional debut, Bueckers admits the nerves are starting to build.
“Yeah—excited, anxious, and a little nervous,” she confessed. “But overall, I’m just incredibly excited.”
Coach Koclanes praised Bueckers’ early contributions, noting her influence on the court.
“It’s incredibly impressive. You put her on the floor, and the game just flows so naturally for her,” he said.
The Dallas Wings will kick off their WNBA preseason this Friday at Notre Dame’s Purcell Pavilion, the same venue where fellow guard Arike Ogunbowale had a stellar college career.
