DiJonai Carrington has quickly found her footing with the Minnesota Lynx, just days after being traded from the Dallas Wings. In her debut game on Tuesday, Carrington made a significant impact, scoring 13 points, with 10 coming in a pivotal fourth quarter, helping her team secure a dramatic 91-87 victory over the Seattle Storm.
Following the game, Carrington expressed that this was one of the rare moments she truly enjoyed playing basketball in what has been a challenging season for her. Injuries have plagued her year, limiting her appearances to just 21 games, and the recent trade of her teammate NaLyssa Smith to the Las Vegas Aces represents a significant shift within the Wings’ roster.
Despite her frustrations in Dallas, Carrington has fond memories from her time there, particularly her mentorship of rising star Paige Bueckers. Bueckers, acknowledging her admiration for Carrington and Smith, referred to them as her “big sisters.” After the game, Carrington took to social media to send a heartfelt message to Bueckers, highlighting the strong bond they share.
With the win, the Lynx now boast an impressive league-best record of 25-5, showcasing their strength even in the absence of star player Napheesa Collier. As the Lynx prepare for their upcoming game against the Washington Mystics, they look to maintain their momentum. Meanwhile, the Dallas Wings are set to face the New York Liberty on the same day, seeking to bounce back from their recent loss to the reigning champions.
This season’s narrative continues to evolve as players move between teams and adapt to new roles, adding excitement to the WNBA landscape. The bond between players like Carrington and Bueckers underscores the supportive environment within women’s basketball, where mentorship is a key theme.