Paige Bueckers scores a career-high 44 points in the Dallas Wings’ 81–80 loss to the Los Angeles Sparks, setting multiple rookie records in an unforgettable WNBA performance.
Paige Bueckers’ 44-Point Game Highlights Rookie Excellence
On August 21, 2025, Paige Bueckers recorded a season- and career-high 44 points against the Los Angeles Sparks, the highest scoring game in the league this year and tied for the 10th most in WNBA history. Despite her historic performance, the Dallas Wings fell 81–80, ending their playoff hopes.
Bueckers shot 81 percent from the field, adding three assists and four rebounds. Her dominant performance underscores her status as one of the league’s top rookies, carrying much of the offensive load for the Wings.
Game Recap: Sparks Edge Out Wings at the Buzzer
| Team | Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas Wings | Paige Bueckers | 44 | 4 | 3 |
| Dallas Wings | Siegrist | 9 | 2 | 1 |
| Dallas Wings | JJ Quinerly | 5 | 1 | 2 |
| LA Sparks | Kelsey Plum | 20 | 4 | 2 |
| LA Sparks | Rickea Jackson | 25 | 5 | 3 |
| LA Sparks | Cameron Brink | 11 | 8 | 1 |
Despite Bueckers’ scoring output, Kelsey Plum hit a buzzer-beater, securing an 81–80 victory for the Sparks. Rickea Jackson contributed 25 points, while Cameron Brink added 11 points and eight rebounds.
Bueckers’ Scoring Efficiency and Leadership
The Wings began the game strong, with Luisa Geiselsoder opening the scoring on a deep three-pointer. Bueckers quickly added two more triples, a free throw, and a midrange jumper, fueling a 9–0 early run. By the end of the first quarter, Bueckers had scored eight points, while Cameron Brink contributed five points for the Sparks.
Bueckers’ impact continued in the second quarter. After Dallas trailed by 13 points, a Wings timeout sparked a 13-point run, cutting the deficit to 44–37 by halftime. She finished the half with 16 points on 75 percent shooting.
Third Quarter Surge Puts Dallas in Front
The Wings dominated the third quarter, scoring 29 points while holding the Sparks to 15. Bueckers contributed 15 points during this period, giving Dallas a 66–59 lead entering the fourth quarter.
Fourth-Quarter Heroics Not Enough
In the final quarter, the Sparks opened with a 10–0 run. Bueckers scored all 14 of Dallas’ fourth-quarter points, including a clutch three-pointer to briefly reclaim the lead. However, Plum’s game-winning buzzer shot sealed the 81–80 loss.
Paige Bueckers’ Historic Season Achievements
| Milestone | Achievement |
|---|---|
| Career-High Points | 44 vs. Sparks |
| Rookie Assist Record | 143 assists, franchise record |
| Fastest Rookie Milestones | First WNBA rookie to reach 500 points & 100 assists |
| Field Goal Efficiency | 81% in 44-point game |
| Overall Impact | Led Wings in scoring, key late-game plays |
Bueckers’ 44-point performance highlights her efficiency, scoring versatility, and clutch leadership, setting multiple rookie records.
Team Implications
The Wings, with a 9–27 record, are officially eliminated from playoff contention. The Sparks improved to 17–18, intensifying the race for the final playoff spots with the Seattle Storm and Golden State Valkyries.
Upcoming games:
- Dallas Wings: Host the Seattle Storm next.
- LA Sparks: Face Phoenix Mercury after a short break.
FAQs About Paige Bueckers’ 44-Point Game
Q1: How many points did Paige Bueckers score against the Sparks?
She scored a career-high 44 points.
Q2: Did Dallas make the playoffs after this loss?
No, the Wings were eliminated from playoff contention.
Q3: Who hit the game-winning shot for the Sparks?
Kelsey Plum scored the buzzer-beater for the 81–80 win.
Q4: What rookie records has Paige Bueckers set this season?
Bueckers set the franchise rookie assist record with 143 assists and became the fastest WNBA rookie to reach 500 points and 100 assists.
Q5: What are the next games for Dallas and LA?
Dallas hosts the Seattle Storm, while LA faces the Phoenix Mercury.
Conclusion
Even in defeat, Paige Bueckers’ 44-point game cements her place as one of the WNBA’s brightest rising stars. Her scoring efficiency, clutch plays, and historic rookie season make her one of the league’s most exciting players to watch. The Wings may be out of playoff contention, but Bueckers’ performance will be remembered as a milestone in WNBA history.