The WNBA first-year player record of 44 was set by Cynthia Cooper in the inaugural season of the WNBA (1997), when all players were “first year.” The true rookie record was held by Candace Parker who scored 40 points in 2008. But it was a bittersweet performance for Bueckers, whose primary focus is on winning.

Dallas Wings rising star Paige Bueckers set the WNBA rookie record for most points scored in a single game with 44 on Wednesday night against the Los Angeles Sparks.