One dazzling move from Paige Bueckers sent the crowd into a frenzy. In a highly anticipated WNBA clash, the Dallas Wings faced the Atlanta Dream for their home opener. While fans expected another strong performance from the reigning Rookie of the Year, a specific sequence involving Jordin Canada stole the spotlight.
During the third quarter, with under three minutes left and Atlanta holding a slim 54-53 lead, Bueckers received the ball at the top of the key. She attacked the rim, and Canada defended her closely. But Bueckers abruptly stopped, causing Canada to lose her balance and fall to the floor—a classic ankle-breaker.
The clip went viral, but Canada took it in stride. After the game, she took to Threads and wrote, “Aye Paige got me BAD lmao. But you know what, everyone has their day, had to give her her props!”
Canada’s night wasn’t defined by that one moment. The 5-foot-6 guard finished with 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists, leading her team in scoring. Her gracious reaction drew praise, as she acknowledged Bueckers’ skill rather than taking offense.
But while Bueckers electrified the home crowd, the Wings couldn’t close out the game. Dallas struggled in the final stretch.
Atlanta outlasted Bueckers and the Wings in a chaotic home opener. For three quarters, Dallas looked ready to improve to 2-0. Bueckers, who posted 15 points, 2 rebounds, and 3 assists, continued to showcase her playmaking and scoring ability.
However, the game turned in the fourth quarter. With just over five minutes left, Dallas trailed by three but then went cold. The Wings didn’t score again until the 3:36 mark, allowing Atlanta to stretch the lead to eight. A late push wasn’t enough.
Notable: Both teams struggled from three-point range (Dallas 15%, Atlanta 27%). Azzi Fudd was ruled out due to a knee injury.
As Dallas prepares to face the Minnesota Lynx on May 14, the 77-72 loss highlighted issues with offensive rhythm and late-game execution—common growing pains for a young team.