Paige Bueckers Discusses Potential Back Injury After WNBA Game Against Liberty

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Paige Bueckers, a guard for the Dallas Wings, experienced a back issue during their 85-76 loss against the New York Liberty. She was the top pick in this year's WNBA draft. Bueckers left the game at Barclays Centre in the third quarter due to back tightness but returned after treatment. Despite her discomfort, she scored 21 points, grabbed eight rebounds, and made four assists.

Bueckers has been impressive in her rookie season, averaging 18.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. She leads the Wings in several statistical categories despite their struggles this season. Her performance continues to be a highlight for the team as they navigate through challenges.

Reflecting on her injury, Bueckers mentioned: "I was just dribbling the ball and just felt a tightness come along. It's day to day. I'm hoping it won't take me out. Just get some treatment, get some rest. I think it's just a pulled muscle. I felt a strain, felt it tighten, so I am just getting it worked out."

In other league news, Brittney Sykes has been traded from the Washington Mystics to the Seattle Storm. In return, Washington received forward Alysha Clark and a first-round pick for 2026. Sykes is having an excellent season with averages of 15.4 points, 4.3 assists, and 1.2 steals per game.

Sykes' performance earned her a spot on this summer's All-Star team for the first time in her career. The trade also involved Zia Cooke moving to Washington from Seattle; however, she was waived alongside Sika Kone shortly after joining.

The Storm still hold two first-round picks for 2026 following previous trades, while Washington now possesses three such picks. These strategic moves indicate both teams' plans for future growth and development within the league.