Lobo’s remark reinforced a growing sentiment across the league that the award is no longer up for debate. While Washington Mystics ’ Sonia Citron had been mounting a strong challenge with steady play, Bueckers’ breakout performance shifted momentum heavily in her favor.

Dallas Wings rookie guard Paige Bueckers has been incredible in her first WNBA season, but Wednesday night will go down as the high point of her rookie campaign

PAIGE BUECKERS The high in Los Angeles on Wednesday was 90 degrees, but the temperature inside Crypto.com Arena was a lot warmer. That's because Wings rookie Paige Bueckers was on fire as she tied the single-game record for points by a rookie.

Dallas Wings head coach Chris Koclanes discussed the benefits of having Paige Bueckers play off of the ball.

Dallas Wings superstar Paige Bueckers is the runaway favorite to take home the WNBA 's Rookie of the Year award. She's always mentioned Dallas Mavericks star Kyrie Irving as one of her idols, but she has another player who is one of her favorites.

Kelsey Plum's game-winner gives Sparks the victory over Dallas, who get a WNBA rookie record-tying 44 points from Paige Buckers.