WNBA News: Paige Bueckers loses key teammate on the Wings due to season-ending injury. Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings will face the final stretch of the WNBA regular season without a key player.

Paige Bueckers and the Wings dealt major setback

Paige Bueckers’ impressive debut season in the WNBA has been one of the league’s bright spots, but the Dallas Wings’ overall campaign hasn’t lived up to expectations. Now, their uphill climb just became even steeper after losing a vital contributor for the remainder of the season.

During a matchup with the Los Angeles Sparks, center Li Yueru sustained a serious knee injury. Subsequent evaluations confirmed the worst — an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) sprain that rules her out for the rest of the year.

The Wings made the announcement via their official X account, stating:

“Li Yueru will miss the remainder of the 2025 season due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) sprain in her left knee. Yueru sustained the injury against the Los Angeles Sparks on Aug. 15. Yueru is expected to make a full recovery. Additional updates will be provided when appropriate.”

Yueru, who joined Dallas in a midseason trade from the Seattle Storm, has been averaging 7.4 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 1.0 assists across 22 appearances. Her absence leaves a major hole in Chris Koclanes’ rotation.

A turbulent season continues

Despite a promising start, the Wings have struggled to find consistency and now sit bottom of the Western Conference with a 9–26 record. Injuries, form issues, and a lack of depth have derailed their playoff ambitions, shifting the focus toward player development and preparing for next season.

Upcoming fixtures for Dallas:

• Aug. 20 vs Los Angeles Sparks

• Aug. 22 vs Seattle Storm

• Aug. 24 vs Golden State Valkyries

• Aug. 27 vs Connecticut Sun

• Aug. 29 vs Atlanta Dream