Overview

• Paige Bueckers scored 44 points on 17-for-21 shooting (4-for-4 from three), becoming the first WNBA player with a 40-point game at 80% from the field and logging one of the most efficient 40+ outings ever by true shooting.
• Kelsey Plum hit a game-winning buzzer-beater to seal the Los Angeles Sparks’ 81–80 win, moving them to 17–18 and keeping their playoff hopes alive as they sit ninth, a half-game back of the final spot.
• The performance intensified comparisons with Caitlin Clark, with Dan Patrick calling Bueckers–Clark a potential marquee rivalry, and drew wide reaction from NBA figures and celebrities including Shemar Moore courtside.
• Dallas, already eliminated from playoff contention, signed Nigeria forward Amy Okonkwo to a seven-day hardship deal with the roster down to eight active players after injuries to Li Yueru, Arike Ogunbowale and JJ Quinerly.
• Reports note the WNBA has drawn about 2.5 million fans this season as conversation grows over multiple stars driving interest, with Draymond Green publicly questioning whether Bueckers is rapidly becoming a face of the league.