Paige Bueckers Misses WNBA Season Opener

Dallas Wings coach Jose Fernandez sidelined star point guard Paige Bueckers for Saturday’s game against the Portland Fire as a precaution. Bueckers is currently listed as “day-to-day” after rolling her ankle during a Commissioner’s Cup matchup, according to Fernandez. The Wings lost the contest 84-83.

Emily Engstler secured the victory for Portland by knocking down a game-winning free throw with 1.2 seconds remaining. Fernandez told ESPN that while Bueckers wanted to play, the decision focused on her career longevity and the health of the franchise.

Why was Paige Bueckers sidelined?

Bueckers sustained the ankle injury two days prior during a game against Phoenix while attempting to secure a second-quarter rebound. Although she briefly entered the locker room for treatment, she returned to score a season-high 31 points on 14-20 shooting with five assists.

Did You Know? During the game where she injured her ankle, Bueckers recorded a season-high 31 points while shooting 70% (14-20) from the field.

Fernandez noted that the move was a precautionary measure. He stated that taking care of her body is the best path for her longevity and the franchise.

How does this fit into her injury history?

Bueckers’ WNBA setbacks have followed a day-to-day timeline since her career began last year. This includes a right-knee injury and three games spent in concussion protocol during early June of last season.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the Wings’ decision to prioritize long-term health over a single regular-season game reflects the high stakes of Bueckers’ availability, given her history of significant collegiate injuries.

These recent issues differ from her five-year tenure at UConn. During her college career, the Minnesota native missed the entire 2022-23 campaign after tearing her ACL and underwent major knee surgery in December 2021, which sidelined her for most of her sophomore season.

What happens next for the Dallas Wings?

The Wings could face first-place Las Vegas at home on Monday evening. The game is scheduled for 8 p.m. and will air on USA Network.

🫣 PAIGE BUECKERS KNEE INJURY on DIRTY PLAY! | UConn Huskies vs Villanova Women's Basketball

Dallas may use the Monday matchup to make up ground in the Western Conference title hunt. Bueckers’ availability for the game remains dependent on her day-to-day recovery progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Paige Bueckers miss the game against the Portland Fire?
Coach Jose Fernandez sidelined her as a precaution after she rolled her ankle during a game against Phoenix two days prior.

What was the result of the Wings vs. Fire game?
The Portland Fire won 84-83 following a game-winning free throw by Emily Engstler with 1.2 seconds left.

What is Paige Bueckers’ current recovery timeline?
Coach Jose Fernandez described her recovery timeline as “day-to-day.”

How will the Wings’ offensive strategy change if Bueckers is unable to play against Las Vegas?