Paige Bueckers, widely recognized for her scoring prowess, has impressed on the defensive end during the 2026 FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup in Berlin, earning a spot on FIBA’s Best Defensive Player shortlist. The Dallas Wings guard’s defensive contributions have turned heads throughout the tournament’s group stage.
Originally arriving in Berlin as one of Team USA’s offensive weapons, Bueckers has showcased a remarkable transformation, making a significant impact on defense. Through four games, she is averaging 1.0 blocks and 1.3 steals per contest, numbers that notably exceed her career averages in the WNBA, where she records 0.4 blocks and 1.2 steals per game.
Defensive Excellence Fuels Team USA’s Success
FIBA affectionately dubbed the second-year professional “Paige Blockers” in recognition of her defensive tenacity and shot-altering presence. Beyond her defensive stats, Bueckers continues to contribute offensively, averaging 9.5 points and 3.5 assists per game, helping Team USA dominate their group play and advance confidently in the competition.