Dallas Wings Guard Paige Bueckers Sustains Apparent Muscle strain in Loss to New York Liberty – Rookie sensation Paige Bueckers experienced a potential injury during the Wings’ 85-76 defeat against the New York Liberty at the College Park Centre in Arlington, texas, on Wednesday, August 23, 2023.
Bueckers, speaking to Alyce Brown of the Associated Press, described the injury as a “pulled muscle” and expressed hope it wouldn’t sideline her for an extended period. “It’s day to day. I’m hoping it won’t take me out.Just get some treatment, get some rest,” bueckers stated. She indicated feeling a strain and tightening in the affected muscle.
The incident occurred in the third quarter. Bueckers received treatment in the locker room but returned to play in the fourth quarter, contributing 21 points, 8 rebounds, and 4 assists while shooting 8-for-15 from the field. The Liberty were led by Sabrina Ionescu, who scored 27 points.
Despite the Wings’ current 8-22 record, Bueckers’ arrival has injected optimism into the franchise. Selected as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2023 WNBA draft,Bueckers is averaging 18.6 points, 5.4 assists, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game. She was also named a starter in the 2023 WNBA All-Star Game, held in Las Vegas on July 15th.
Bueckers has demonstrated consistent scoring, reaching 20 or more points in her last four games. Her performance has defied typical rookie struggles, even 24 games into her professional career. Her recent scoring outbursts include 25 points against the Connecticut Sun on August 18th and 23 points against the Chicago Sky on August 20th.
The Wings’ primary focus now shifts to Bueckers’ long-term health and progress. With their playoff hopes diminished, the team is prioritizing her well-being over a potential late-season push. The Wings currently trail the eighth-place Atlanta Dream by 6.5 games.
The Wings have a scheduled rematch against the Liberty on Friday,August 25th,at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn,New York.The upcoming days of rest may provide Bueckers with sufficient recovery time, aligning with her assessment of the injury’s severity.
