Paige Bueckers breaks silence on WNBA MVP race inclusion

The Dallas Wings have been having an unexpectedly successful 2026 WNBA season so far, currently sitting fourth overall in the league with an 18-10 record — the highest win total they’ve had in a season since 2023. The whole roster’s efforts and chemistry are paying off, but the Wings largely have sophomore phenom Paige Bueckers to thank for their playoff positioning.

Bueckers has been averaging a team-high 20.7 points and 6.2 assists in 26 contests, earning her a spot in the WNBA MVP conversation this campaign. In an ESPN interview with Chiney Ogwumike, Bueckers opened up about the significance of having her name discussed as one of the W’s active greats in just her second year.

“It’s humbling. There’s so many amazing women in this league,” Bueckers said. “I really feel like it’s just a testament to the team and what we’ve been able to do this first half of the year, and how well we’ve bonded, and how quick the chemistry came about.”

With the Wings on track to make the postseason for the first time since 2023, Bueckers emphasized that her MVP recognition represents something much bigger than her achievements alone.

“Those conversations come with winning, and that’s the biggest thing that I care about.”

When Ogwumike asked about what words she would personally use to describe her own game, the 2025 Rookie of the Year didn’t hesitate with her response.

“Passion, joy,” Bueckers answered. “Just like when people watch me play, I want them to feel like a sense, from me, of gratitude to be out there and just a love for the game. Like, I just love this game so much, so I want that to shine through when I’m playing.”

Bueckers is also on track to become the W’s first player averaging at least 20 points and 5.0 assists while shooting over 50% from the field. She’s in contention for this year’s MVP award alongside breakout rookie Olivia Miles and historic four-time winner A’ja Wilson.

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