Paige Bueckers Named WNBA Rookie of the Year

In a significant announcement for women’s basketball, Paige Bueckers of the Dallas Wings has been recognized as the 2025 WNBA Rookie of the Year. This accolade was revealed by the league on September 16, 2025, and highlights Bueckers’ impressive debut season in the professional arena.

A Stellar Performance

Bueckers, who was the first overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, has made a remarkable impact since joining the league. She started in all 36 games for the Wings, showcasing her skills and determination on the court. Over the course of the season, she averaged 19.2 points, 5.4 assists, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.6 steals per game. Her shooting efficiency has also been noteworthy, with a field goal percentage of 47.4% and an impressive free-throw percentage of 88.8%.

Her performance not only led her to accumulate a total of 692 points, making her the highest-scoring rookie in the league, but she also topped the charts in assists with 194, marking her as a dual threat on the court. Bueckers distinguished herself further by being the sole player in the WNBA this season to rank in the top 10 for points, assists, and steals per game, underscoring her all-around contribution to the game.

Record-Setting Moments

One of the standout moments of Bueckers’ rookie season came on August 2, when she scored 44 points in a single game against the Los Angeles Sparks. This performance not only set a new WNBA rookie record but also made her the first player in league history to score 40 or more points while shooting at least 80% from the field in a game. Bueckers made 17 of her 21 attempts, demonstrating her scoring prowess and efficiency.

Recognition and Honors

Bueckers received overwhelming support from the media panel voting for the Rookie of the Year award, securing 70 out of 72 first-place votes. The remaining two votes went to Sonia Citron, a guard for the Washington Mystics. This recognition places Bueckers among an elite group of players, as she becomes the seventh former University of Connecticut (UConn) player to win this prestigious award. Notable UConn alumni who have previously received this honor include Diana Taurasi (2004), Tina Charles (2010), Maya Moore (2011), Breanna Stewart (2016), Napheesa Collier (2019), and Crystal Dangerfield (2020).

The WNBA Rookie of the Year award has been presented annually since 1998, making Bueckers the 16th player drafted first overall to earn this title.

The Dallas Wings’ Season

Despite Bueckers’ individual achievements, the Dallas Wings faced challenges as a team. The Wings concluded the season with a record of 10-30, which resulted in them missing the playoffs. However, Bueckers’ remarkable rookie season provides a foundation for the team as they look ahead to the next season and prepare for the draft lottery.

Conclusion

Paige Bueckers’ recognition as the WNBA Rookie of the Year is a testament to her talent, hard work, and potential in the sport. As she continues to develop her skills and gain experience in the league, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how she progresses in her professional career. Her achievements this season not only highlight her individual capabilities but also bring attention to the growing prominence of women’s basketball.

Key Facts

– **Award**: 2025 WNBA Rookie of the Year
– **Team**: Dallas Wings
– **Games Played**: 36
– **Average Points**: 19.2
– **Total Points**: 692 (most among rookies)
– **Assists**: 5.4 per game (led all rookies)
– **Rebounds**: 3.9 per game
– **Steals**: 1.6 per game
– **Shooting Percentage**: 47.4% from the field, 88.8% from the free-throw line
– **Record**: 10-30 (team record for the season)
– **Notable Achievement**: Scored 44 points in a single game against the Los Angeles Sparks, setting a WNBA rookie record.

Source: www.espn.com