Historic Start: Paige Bueckers Joins Candace Parker, Sabrina Ionescu as Only Rookies with 20-Point Triple-Double in First Two Games
Paige Bueckers is already making WNBA history — and she’s just getting started.
In her first two games as a professional, the former UConn superstar has joined elite company, becoming only the third rookie in WNBA history to post a 20-point, 10-assist, 10-rebound stat line through her opening two outings. The only others to accomplish that feat? Candace Parker and Sabrina Ionescu — two of the most iconic names in the sport.
Bueckers, who was selected No. 3 overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Minnesota Lynx, has wasted no time proving she belongs on the big stage. In her debut, she dropped 22 points, 11 assists, and 7 rebounds in a commanding win. Just days later, she followed it up with another standout performance, recording 21 points, 10 rebounds, and 9 assists — narrowly missing back-to-back triple-doubles.
“She’s a natural leader,” said Lynx head coach Cheryl Reeve. “What she’s doing right now isn’t just rare — it’s special. Her poise, her vision, her feel for the game at this level is already elite.”
The 22-year-old guard entered the league with immense hype after a storied college career at UConn, where she was a national champion, multiple-time All-American, and one of the most recognizable faces in women’s basketball. But few expected her to adapt to the professional pace and physicality so quickly.
What separates Bueckers, according to analysts and coaches, is not just her scoring ability but her court awareness and ability to elevate those around her. In just two games, she’s shown an uncanny knack for controlling the tempo, threading passes through tight windows, and creating opportunities for her teammates.
“She makes the game easier for everyone,” said teammate Napheesa Collier. “She’s one of those players you just trust with the ball in her hands. It’s rare to see that kind of command from a rookie.”
The statistical comparison to legends like Parker and Ionescu isn’t just flattering — it’s a sign that Bueckers could be on a trajectory to become one of the league’s next great stars. Parker, a two-time MVP and WNBA champion, posted similar numbers in her 2008 debut season, while Ionescu made headlines for her triple-double prowess early in her career.
Bueckers, ever humble, deflected the attention back to her team.
“It’s all about getting wins,” she said after her second game. “Individual stats are cool, but I’m focused on building chemistry, playing the right way, and helping this team succeed.”
Still, the league is buzzing. Fans have flocked to see her play, and social media is ablaze with highlights of her no-look passes and clutch step-back jumpers. In an era where women’s basketball is experiencing unprecedented growth in viewership and fan engagement, Bueckers’ emergence couldn’t come at a better time.
As the season unfolds, expectations will undoubtedly grow. But if the first two games are any indication, Paige Bueckers is not just meeting the moment — she’s redefining it.
For the Lynx and the league, the future looks bright — and it’s wearing No. 5.
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