Paige Bueckers scores 44 points but loses to Kelsey Plum's buzzer-beater

In a recent Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) game held on August 20, 2025, in Dallas, Paige Bueckers, a rookie for the Dallas Wings, showcased an extraordinary performance. She scored a remarkable 44 points, establishing a new record for the highest points scored by a player in a single game in the WNBA for the current season. Bueckers not only reached a career high but also tied the longstanding record set by Cynthia Cooper for the most points in a game by a first-year player, a record held for 28 years. Despite her stellar individual achievement, the Wings faced a narrow defeat against the Los Angeles Sparks, who won 81-80, which eliminated both teams from playoff contention. In the closing moments of the game, leading 80-79 after scoring the Wings' last 13 points including a technical free throw, Bueckers watched as Sparks guard Kelsey Plum made a crucial left-handed floater over multiple defenders that banked in as the buzzer sounded. The outcome underscored the intensity of the match and Bueckers’ outstanding performance among a strong statistical lineup from the Sparks, including Rickea Jackson's 25 points and significant contributions from other players. Paige Bueckers' remarkable scoring efficiency was evident as she shot 17 of 21 from the field, went 4 for 4 from three-point range, and achieved a perfect 6 for 6 at the free-throw line. This achievement builds on her previous high of 35 points recorded in a prior game against the Phoenix Mercury, and with this performance, she also marked a significant milestone by breaking the record for the longest streak of consecutive double-digit scoring games for a rookie in WNBA history, now totaling 29 games. It's worth noting that A'ja Wilson holds the overall record for consecutive double-digit scoring games by any player at 33. This thrilling encounter, however, was a poignant reminder of the competitiveness and unpredictability inherent in sports, with the Sparks' victory directly impacting the playoff possibilities for the Wings. The teams had recently faced each other before this game, with the Sparks narrowly escaping another close match, adding to the rivalry theme. With just over 20 seconds left, the Wings made an attempt to secure the win after winning a jump ball, but a missed three-pointer allowed Plum a final shot opportunity from the lane. This game culminated in a showcase of impressive talent, competitive spirit, and emotional highs and lows, especially for Bueckers and her teammates. The WNBA continues to thrive on such dramatic moments that contribute to its growing popularity while also highlighting the need for structural changes to enhance playoff fairness, given the implications of this match not just for the teams, but for Bueckers' promising career as well.