WNBA’s Strong Reaction to Paige Bueckers’ Performance Against Caitlin Clark-Less Fever originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Paige Bueckers came to play in what was supposed to be her first-ever WNBA clash against Caitlin Clark on Friday night. Unfortunately, Clark was forced to miss the Indiana Fever-Dallas Wings game due to a groin injury, which only meant that the rivalry showdown between two of the biggest young stars in the league would have to be pushed back.
Bueckers sent a message in this one by going off for a team-high 27 points on 9-of-18 shooting, six assists, two steals, two blocks and two triples in 36 minutes of action.
Despite Bueckers’ huge performance, however, the Wings still suffered a 94-86 defeat against a shorthanded Fever side. This was Bueckers’ and Co.’s second loss in three games, which saw them fall to 4-13 on the season.
The WNBA, though, just had to react to Bueckers’ strong outing against Indiana. The league took to social media to issue a statement on the 23-year-old’s heroics on Friday night.
“Paige Bueckers delivered a PHENOMENAL performance in her attempt to get Dallas the victory over Indiana,” the league posted on Instagram.
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In 13 games played this season, Bueckers has put up averages of 18.4 points (on 46.1% shooting), 4.4 rebounds, 5.8 assists and 1.8 steals, making her the favorite for this season’s Rookie of the Year title.
As for Clark, Friday marked her second straight missed contest as she continues to be “day to day” with her groin injury.
The Fever and the Wings are scheduled to face off again on July 13 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Hopefully, both Clark and Bueckers will be healthy for the upcoming matchup, allowing fans to finally get their first taste of this high-profile WNBA rivalry.
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This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 28, 2025, where it first appeared.