Bueckers Home Debut Spoiled by Lynx
The regular season tipped off with a marquee matchup as Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings hosted Napheesa Collier and the Minnesota Lynx at a sold-out College Park Center. The atmosphere was electric, with fans eager to witness the professional debut of Bueckers, the number one overall pick and one of the most anticipated rookies in years. The first half delivered on the hype, as both teams played with energy and urgency. Dallas showed flashes of promise, with Bueckers facilitating and Arike Ogunbowale getting downhill. The Wings matched the veteran Lynx blow for blow, and the game went into halftime tied at 46 apiece.
Minnesota took control after the break, using its experience and cohesion to pull away decisively. Even without two starters—Kayla McBride and Alanna Smith- the Lynx leaned on their depth and veteran leadership. Napheesa Collier was sensational, scoring 34 points and anchoring the team on both ends. Courtney Williams added 25, hitting timely shots and pushing the tempo. The Lynx outscored Dallas 53–38 in the second half, executing with poise and making smart adjustments. Minnesota took advantage of every mismatch on the floor. Their ability to exploit mismatches and stay composed under pressure was a key difference. Dallas, meanwhile, looked like a team still trying to find its rhythm. Ogunbowale led Dallas with 16 points, and Bueckers finished with six points, seven rebounds, and a block, showing her potential despite limited scoring.
This particular opener revealed a lot about both teams’ trajectories. The Lynx proved they can thrive even when shorthanded, thanks to their veteran core and reliable bench. Their chemistry and discipline make them a threat regardless of the lineup. On the other side, the Wings are a work in progress, navigating a rebuilding phase with seven new players and a first-year head coach. While there were encouraging signs, especially from Bueckers and the supporting cast, Dallas will need time to gel and develop an identity. They’ll try to regroup quickly as they prepare to face the Seattle Storm on Monday, while Minnesota turns its attention to a challenging road matchup against the revamped Los Angeles Sparks.
