Drafting Paige Bueckers with the first overall pick just breathed new life into the Dallas Wings. The UConn superstar had a legendary college career, ending it on the highest note imaginable, and is now looking to dominate the pros. We’ve seen it happen time and time again. Last year, Caitlin Clark took over the WNBA in just her rookie season, and with how talented Bueckers is? There’s no doubt that it can happen again!

However, the circumstances are completely different for the two college rivals. Even though both players are of similar archetypes, Paige Bueckers will play a completely different role in Dallas. For starters, she has Arike Ogunbowale, NaLyssa Smith, DiJonai Carrington and Tyasha Harris to back her up. Whether the pieces will fit together, however, is something we’re not quite sure of.

On ESPN’s The Elle Duncan Show, Duncan talked about how Bueckers’ presence will immediately impact the Texas-based team. “They are definitely gonna be in contention for the playoffs.” The reporter said. She pointed out how while they aren’t necessarily a championship contender, a playoff berth is nearly guaranteed if all goes well.

The Wings went 22-18 in 2023, reaching the semifinals, but slumped to 9-31 in 2024 after losing Satou Sabally and Natasha Howard. With Bueckers, Carrington, Smith, and Harris, plus NC State’s Aziaha James at No. 12, ESPN gave Dallas an A grade for their 2025 draft, boosting their playoff hopes in a league where eight of 12 teams qualify.

However, the team dynamics are something that’s creating concern.

Arike Ogunbowale is an amazing player. Last year, in her rookie season, she averaged about 22 points, 4 rebounds, and 5 assists fresh out the gate. But the issues that analysts are outlining are related to her needing the ball in her hands. They see flashes of Russell Westbrook in her, and aren’t sure how she’ll fit in with a genuine floor general like Bueckers.

But according to Duncan, they might have actually needed each other! “It’s gonna take a huge load off her shoulders that she does not have to be the sole person to create offense for the Wings.” She said about Ogunbowale. “Paige is gonna do that. She’s a great facilitator, she’s a great defender.” But not good enough, apparently.

The main issue at hand is that Paige Bueckers will play professionally for the first time ever. There’s no doubt that she is a great player, but growing pains and adjustments will definitely play a role in her rookie season–just like how they did for Caitlin Clark. “As generational a talent as Paige is, I’m not ready to make them a contender yet because we need to see it in action a little bit.” Elle said, doubling down on a fear of inexperience.

However, nothing is set in stone right now. Paige Bueckers looks like she’s ready to compete at the drop of a hat, and we can’t wait to see her in action! But who does she want to play against the most? The answer might surprise you.

Paige Bueckers shows school loyalty while naming her most anticipated matchups

Every high-level athlete loves to compete, that’s just how their minds are wired. You could not get Michael Jordan off the golf course on his off-days, and Paige Bueckers loves her video games too! The Dallas Wings rookie is super excited to compete at the highest level possible, and we can’t wait to see it!

In a Good Morning America episode with Robin Roberts, the six-foot tall point guard came clean about her competitive aspirations in the league. When Roberts asked her who she’s excited to matchup against in her very first season, Bueckers had a few names in mind. “Obviously all the UConn alums, and my former teammates. Liv, Aaliyah, Nika, and everybody else, and everybody, honestly I’m just so excited to compete.” The first overall pick said, and we get why.

The Huskies are such a tight-knit family, and that’s a huge reason behind their success! Geno Auriemma has been very particular about the kind of environment in his locker room. Bueckers and her UConn teammates have supported each other through highs and lows, and they can’t wait to share the biggest stage together.

All the interviews, and all the aspirations aside, we can’t wait to see Bueckers in action. The Huskies star took over as a freshman, and never looked back. With her grace and Husky heart, she’s got the tools to shine, but turning Dallas into a contender will take time, especially with a new coach and a revamped roster. It will be interesting to see if her skills translate immediately to the highest level in the sport!