Paige Bueckers, the point guard for the Dallas Wings and the first pick in this year’s WNBA draft, is sidelined for at least two games. The team announced on Friday that she was placed in concussion protocol following a loss to the Chicago Sky.
Bueckers will be re-evaluated after the game against the Seattle Storm on Tuesday. So far this season, she’s made a big impact, averaging 14.7 points, 6.7 assists, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.0 steals in six games. Her playtime of 33.9 minutes per game is the highest on the team.
The Wings have had a rough start this season, with a record of 1-5. They secured their first win against the Connecticut Sun, but they face tough opponents ahead, including a matchup against the Sky at home and another against the Sparks next Friday.
Interestingly, Bueckers just led the UConn Huskies to a national championship just 54 days ago. Despite previously missing time due to knee injuries, this is her first issue arising from a head injury. According to experts, head injuries in sports are taken very seriously, and protocols like these help to ensure player safety.
Bueckers’ impact on the game can’t be understated. As the sport continues to grow in popularity, fan reactions on social media often highlight players like her, showing their support and concern during these challenging moments. A recent survey found that over 70% of WNBA fans are increasingly aware of player health and safety issues, reflecting a broader trend in sports today.
For more on concussion protocols in sports, you can read this comprehensive report on the subject.