Dallas Wings rookie Paige Bueckers isn’t shy when it comes to sharing her thoughts, and her recent appearance on the "Nilosophy" podcast proved just that. Asked to name the top player in the WNBA right now, Bueckers gave a thoughtful and telling answer.
Rather than spotlighting one star, the 23-year-old standout gave credit to two of the league’s most dominant forces: Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx and A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces.
“Right now, imma say Phee and A’ja,” Bueckers said. “I couldn’t name just one.”
Her answer speaks volumes about the current WNBA landscape and her respect for the veterans leading the charge.
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Since being selected first overall in April’s WNBA Draft, Bueckers has been quick to validate the Dallas Wings’ decision. Through her first 13 professional games, she’s averaging an impressive 18.4 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.8 assists. She’s scored 20 or more points in four of her last five outings, giving fans a glimpse of her sky-high ceiling.
Despite her own rapid rise, Bueckers has remained grounded and respectful of the players who’ve paved the way.
A’ja Wilson and Napheesa Collier aren’t just fan favorites, they’re statistical powerhouses. Wilson, the reigning MVP, continues to be the face of the league. She’s a three-time MVP, a two-time WNBA champion, and owns two Defensive Player of the Year awards. Add in her four First Team All-WNBA nods and six All-Star appearances, and the resume speaks for itself.
Meanwhile, Collier is having an electric season of her own. She’s currently leading the league in scoring at 24.5 points per game, while Wilson isn’t far behind at 21.3. Collier’s decorated history includes four All-Star selections, two First Team All-WNBA honors, 2024’s Defensive Player of the Year, and the 2019 Rookie of the Year award.
These two have consistently set the standard for excellence, and Bueckers’ admiration for them is well-earned.
Some might raise eyebrows at the omission of Caitlin Clark, the reigning Rookie of the Year. But Bueckers’ response wasn’t a slight. Clark, also 23, has shown flashes of greatness in her young career and is expected to be a transformative figure for years to come.
Her legacy is still unfolding, and there’s little doubt that she could one day be mentioned among the game’s all-time greats.
As Bueckers continues to thrive in her rookie campaign, the WNBA’s future feels more exciting than ever. Between veterans like Wilson and Collier continuing to dominate, and rising stars like Bueckers and Clark pushing the league forward, women’s basketball is in excellent hands.
For now, Bueckers is content watching and learning from the best, while steadily becoming one of them herself.
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