Paige Bueckers Shines on WNBA Debut as Dallas Wings Face Minnesota Lynx

DALLAS — The 2025 WNBA season kicked off on Friday night with a thrilling matchup at College Park Center, where Paige Bueckers made her debut for the Dallas Wings against the Minnesota Lynx. The game was sold out, reflecting the heightened excitement surrounding Bueckers and the Wings, who struggled with a 9-31 record last season.

Wings’ play-by-play broadcaster Ron Thulin remarked this was the most exhilarating opening night he had experienced in his decade with the team. Meanwhile, Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve expressed her enthusiasm for being part of the league since 2001, stating, “I’m thrilled that I’m still in it after all these years to finally get a chance to experience the greatness that is the WNBA.”

The opening game featured standout performances, notably from four-time All-Star Arike Ogunbowale, 2024’s most improved player DiJonai Carrington, and Bueckers, the 2025 No. 1 draft pick. However, it was last year’s MVP runner-up, Napheesa Collier, who led Minnesota to a resounding 99-84 victory with 34 points.

The Lynx, despite missing two starters, successfully blended new and returning players. Jess Shepard returned after a year away from the game, and Diamond Miller added a strong contribution from the bench, scoring 13 points and making three assists.

Though the Wings maintained close competition with Minnesota in the first half, they faltered in the third quarter, where Collier and Courtney Williams dominated with a combined 33 points, pushing the Lynx ahead. Dallas struggled offensively, scoring only 20 points in that period.

Bueckers, who excelled at the University of Connecticut with high shooting percentages, faced challenges in her professional debut. After missing her initial shot, she recovered to score her first points on her own rebound. However, she ultimately struggled, missing six of her last eight attempts, largely from her favored right side.

Defensively, Bueckers encountered difficulties, leading to three fouls that allowed Minnesota free throw opportunities. While she recorded a block on a Williams jumper, her overall impact was limited.

For Collier, the first quarter was rocky, as she missed her initial shots and faced early foul trouble. Yet, she rebounded strongly, drawing fouls and making important plays that shifted the game’s momentum.

Looking ahead, Minnesota will continue its road trip on Sunday against the Los Angeles Sparks, while the Wings aim to build on Bueckers’ debut when they host the Seattle Storm on Monday.