

When the WNBA schedule was released, fans immediately focused on one game: the first-ever matchup between the league’s two most recent top draft picks, Paige Bueckers (selected by the Dallas Wings this year) and Caitlin Clark (selected by the Indiana Fever last season). The hype was real, but Clark’s groin injury sidelined her for her seventh game of the year, dampening the anticipated showdown. Even without their star player, the Fever dominated the first quarter, winning it 33-13, and secured a 94-86 victory.
The Fever relied on outstanding performances from Kelsey Mitchell and Aliyah Boston. Mitchell scored 32 points, and Boston added 21. Despite an unforgettable performance from Bueckers that etched her name in the history books and gave fans plenty to talk about, the Wings couldn’t overcome that early 20-point deficit.
Bueckers’ Unmatched Stat Line Steals the Show
With Clark out, the spotlight turned to Bueckers, who rose to the occasion despite the loss. The rookie phenom finished with 27 points, six assists, two steals, and two blocks. She shot 9-of-18 from the field, 2-of-3 from beyond the arc, and 7-of-7 from the free-throw line. Even more impressive? She didn’t turn the ball over once. This combination of 25+ points, 5+ assists, 2+ steals, and 2+ blocks with zero turnovers had never been achieved in a WNBA game until Bueckers did it. She led the Wings in both scoring and assists, showcasing the talent that made her a household name at UConn.
Still, her brilliance couldn’t outshine Indiana’s depth. Alongside Mitchell and Boston-herself a former No. 1 pick in 2023-the Fever maintained control. Fun fact: Boston and Bueckers are the last two players to win an NCAA championship and then be drafted first overall. For Dallas, now sitting at 4-13, Bueckers has been a silver lining, averaging 17.7 points and 5.8 assists. They’ll need to bounce back quickly, though. They’re back home tonight against the Washington Mystics (8-8), where Bueckers will face her Rookie of the Year rival, former USC star Kiki Iriafen.
Fever Look Ahead: Clark’s Return Looms Large
This win gives the Fever some much-needed breathing room, especially since they have a break in their schedule. The timing is perfect, too-Clark’s absence has been noticeable. With her, Indiana is 5-4; without her, they are 3-4, and their offense has struggled to find its rhythm. Before getting injured, Clark was in a slump, making only 5 of 29 three-pointers (17.24%) in her last four games, including scoring just six points against Seattle-her second-worst professional performance.
After sitting out her last game, she now has more time to heal before the July 3 showdown with Las Vegas. That game marks the start of a crucial five-game homestand, and the Fever will be eager to have her back.
This news was originally published on this post .
Be the first to leave a comment