UNCASVILLE — Paige Bueckers, the star guard who made headlines at UConn for her exceptional performance, faces a new challenge in her professional career as she continues to seek her first victory in the WNBA. Bueckers, who previously never lost a game at Mohegan Sun Arena with the UConn team, will step onto the court in Connecticut for the first time as a member of the Dallas Wings. The Wings, currently 0-4, will be matching up against the Connecticut Sun, who also share the same record, in a crucial game for both teams as they look to climb out of the bottom of the league standings.
Reflecting on her time at Mohegan Sun, Bueckers expressed her excitement about returning to a place that feels like a second home, acknowledging the fond memories she has from her college days, where she went 15-0 at the arena. “It’ll be weird stepping on the court not in a UConn uniform, but it’ll be something that I’ll enjoy,” she stated, emphasizing her hope to channel the winning mentality that characterized her time at UConn as she begins this new chapter.
However, the transition to the WNBA has posed its own challenges. The Wings have undergone significant changes, including a roster that features four rookies and just three returning players from the previous season. Despite these early struggles, Bueckers is focusing on learning and growing as a team, with an optimistic outlook on their potential. “What’s delayed is not denied,” she said, highlighting the importance of taking it day-by-day and maintaining a positive mindset as they seek to build chemistry and improve.
Bueckers, currently averaging 13 points, 6.3 assists, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game, remains motivated to overcome these initial setbacks. This game not only serves as a reunion for her in a familiar arena but also presents an ideal opportunity for the Wings to gain some momentum against the Sun, who are under a new coaching regime and facing their struggles as well.
In addition, the matchup features former UConn teammate Olivia Nelson-Ododa, who is now starting for the Sun in her first career starting role. Both players have expressed excitement about competing against each other, further adding to the storylines as they confront this development in their careers.
As the stakes rise for both teams, fans can tune in to witness this compelling clash on NBC Sports Boston at 7 p.m. Tuesday evening.