Paige Bueckers - 2025 WNBA Rookie of the Year

The Dallas Wings didn't make the playoffs, but they can still celebrate a major victory. After a record-setting debut season, star rookie Paige Bueckers was officially named the 2025 WNBA Rookie of the Year on Tuesday. The unanimous choice of a national panel of sportswriters and broadcasters, Bueckers received 70 of the 72 votes, with the remaining two going to Washington Mystics guard Sonia Citron.

A Historic Season

Bueckers' rookie season was one for the history books. The No. 1 overall pick out of UConn became the fastest rookie in league history to reach 500 points and 100 assists. She was also voted a starter in the All-Star Game, a rare feat for a first-year player. Her final stat line—averaging 19.2 points, 5.4 assists, and 1.6 steals per game—places her in elite company.

The most impressive part of her game was her efficiency. Bueckers is the only rookie in WNBA history to average at least 19 points per game while shooting at least 47% from the field. She also became the first player in league history to score 40 or more points while shooting at least 80% from the field.

A Silver Lining for the Wings

While the Wings finished with a disappointing 10-34 record, Bueckers' historic season was a major win for the franchise. The team had its best revenue year ever, with merchandise sales in 25 different countries, proving that Bueckers is an economic force as well as a generational talent.

Meanwhile, Mystics rookie Sonia Citron also had an impressive season, averaging 14.9 points, 4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. She shot a league-best 44.5% from 3-point range, proving that the 2025 WNBA Draft was loaded with talent.

With Bueckers' record-breaking season, the Wings have a new cornerstone to build around, and the future of the franchise looks brighter than ever.