Star player Paige Bueckers acknowledges A'ja Wilson's challenges, offering admiration ahead of Las Vegas Aces and Dallas Wings' preseason kickoff.

Let's Peep the Preseason Smackdown: Dallas Wings vs. Las Vegas Aces

It's game on as the Dallas Wings and Las Vegas Aces kick off their preseasons in a insights-packed showdown at Notre Dame on Friday. Get ready to witness the debut of Wings' top draft pick, Paige Bueckers, who's going to unleash her playmaking and scoring skills on the league.

Rumor has it that Bueckers, the No. 1 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft and an instant sensation, is ready to rock the court against the league's best, none other than the three-time WNBA MVP, A'ja Wilson. On the eve of the game, Bueckers spilled the beans about Wilson, calling her "(one of) the best players in the league," a perennial MVP contender, and a powerhouse with unmatched skills.

Did Bueckers just drop a truth bomb? You betcha! No surprise that Wilson's name is being tossed around in the same breath as Bueckers, the league's hottest newbie, and of course, the best overall player in the WNBA.

Head coach Chris Koclanes knows that Wilson will give the Wings a run for their money, admitting that she's a "problem" they'll have to deal with. But he's excited for his team to face the “best player in the world,” as it presents them with a unique opportunity to fine-tune their strategies and defensive approaches.

As the preseason begins, the Wings are in the heat of roster decision-making. They're scrambling to figure out the most compatible lineups, settling on starters, and making tough cuts. However, playing against Wilson and the Aces will provide a cool opportunity for the Wings to work on their game, Koclanes believes.

With all eyes on the court, the Wings and Aces will go head to head on Friday at 7 PM EST. Don't miss the action, folks! This one's bound to be a thriller!

Bonus Notes:

Fans are eager to see Jewell Loyd's integration into the Aces, after a decade in Seattle, adding scoring depth to the team alongside Wilson and Jackie Young.
The Wings' roster underwent some changes, with Satou Sabally traded but the addition of NaLyssa Smith (2022 No. 2 pick) and backcourt upgrades.
Former Irish superstars Arike Ogunbowale (Wings), Jewell Loyd, and Jackie Young (Aces) all – quite literally – share the same turf, offering current Notre Dame players a valuable mentorship opportunity.
This game marks the first game of the WNBA's fully televised preseason slate.
The teams have until May 15 to finalize their rosters, making this a crucial evaluation period for bench roles.

Paige Bueckers, the top draft pick of the 2025 WNBA Draft, is set to showcase her skills in a highly-anticipated match against three-time WNBA MVP, A'ja Wilson, during the Dallas Wings' preseason game against the Las Vegas Aces.
Fans are excited to witness the duo of Bueckers and WNBA veteran Jewell Loyd, as Loyd integrates into the Aces' lineup, adding scoring depth alongside Wilson and Jackie Young.
The Dallas Wings, while adjusting their roster following the trade of Satou Sabally and the addition of NaLyssa Smith, the 2022 No. 2 pick, will have a unique opportunity to fine-tune their strategies and testing their defensive approaches against Wilson and the Aces.
The WNBA's preseason slate begins with the game between the Wings and Aces, marking the first televised preseason game for fans to enjoy.
The teams have until May 15 to finalize their rosters, making this a crucial evaluation period for bench roles, as both teams strive to field their strongest lineups for the upcoming championship season in sports.