The Dallas Wings have wrapped up their inaugural season with Paige Bueckers leading the way. Rookie guard Bueckers, who earned AP Rookie of the Year honors, is now focused on recovery after her first WNBA campaign.
Reflecting on the season, Bueckers shared her admiration for the team’s resilience amid challenges. “This group — we’ve been through so much,” she told Dallas Hoops Journal insider Grant Afseth. “So many of us were getting our first shot in the league, and we stayed united through it all. I wouldn’t trade this rookie year for anything.”
Bueckers, Wings overcome adversity in rookie season
Bueckers and the Wings battled through injuries and the steep learning curve of adapting to the WNBA throughout the season. Their victory over the Phoenix Mercury in the final game showcased the team’s determination and refusal to give up on one another.
Wings head coach Chris Koclanes credits Bueckers for much of that resilience.
“It’s about the whole locker room learning new roles,” Koclanes told Afseth. “For P, stepping into leadership as a rookie, embracing discomfort while staying true to herself — that really stands out. It wasn’t easy, but she did it. I’ll remember how she stayed authentic while giving the team what it needed.”
Koclanes sees Bueckers’ rookie season as a building block for her future growth.
“When your leader not only talks the talk but walks the walk, it gives me confidence,” he said. “Having P in the locker room, surrounded by everyone else, the bonds they’ve built and the consistency they’ve shown — it’s a strong foundation. Wins and losses aside, there’s a very solid, positive connection among a core of young, talented athletes who will be here for years to come.”
