The Dallas Wings are in the midst of a challenging 2025 WNBA season, but hope is on the horizon as they prepare for the All-Star weekend and look to strengthen their roster. After a tough start with a 6-17 record following a dismal 9-31 finish last year, the Wings have made a strategic move by signing veteran guard Grace Berger on a seven-day hardship waiver contract. This signing comes in the wake of injuries to key players Tyasha Harris and Maddy Siegrist, aiming to add depth and experience to the struggling squad.
Berger, a former Indiana University standout and Indiana Fever player, brings a wealth of collegiate and professional experience to Dallas. The 5-foot-11 guard was a first-round pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft, selected seventh overall by the Fever via a trade with Dallas. Over two seasons with Indiana Fever, she appeared in 47 games and averaged 3.9 points per contest. Her collegiate career was particularly impressive, as she was a four-time All-Big Ten performer and a key figure in Indiana’s 2021 Elite Eight run. Berger’s stats from 2018 to 2023 showcase her versatility, averaging 12.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, along with three triple-doubles, highlighting her all-around game.
Before joining the Wings, Berger had a brief stint with the Los Angeles Sparks, appearing in one game on a hardship contract earlier this season after being waived by the Minnesota Lynx at the end of training camp. Her return to the WNBA with Dallas marks her third team this season and offers the Wings a much-needed boost amid their injury woes.
Alongside Berger’s arrival, the Wings are also riding the wave of excitement surrounding rookie Paige Bueckers, the first overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. Bueckers has been a revelation for Dallas, making an immediate impact and securing her spot as the only first-year player selected as a starter in this year’s All-Star Game. Through 18 games, Bueckers is averaging an impressive 18.4 points, 5.5 assists, 4.1 rebounds, 1.7 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game, shooting 44.9 percent from the field. Her consistency is remarkable, having scored in double figures in every game this season.
In the Wings’ latest outing on July 16, 2025, Bueckers put up 20 points on 9-of-24 shooting, along with three rebounds, eight assists, and two steals over 39 minutes in a narrow 90-86 loss to the Las Vegas Aces. Despite the defeat, her performance underscored her status as a cornerstone for the franchise’s rebuilding efforts.
The Wings’ 2025 season has been a stark contrast to the rising Golden State Valkyries, who, as an expansion franchise, have started strong with a 10-12 record and lead the league in attendance. The Valkyries, like Dallas, have an All-Star representative in Kayla Thornton, who is making her first All-Star appearance after a career year and a championship win with the New York Liberty.
Dallas hopes to leverage the momentum from their All-Star players and Berger’s addition to snap a four-game losing streak. The team is poised to face the Seattle Storm and Golden State Valkyries in their first two games after the All-Star break, critical matchups that could define their trajectory for the remainder of the season.
The Wings’ management and coaching staff are undoubtedly looking for ways to maximize the talent on their roster. The signing of Berger not only fills immediate gaps caused by injuries but also brings veteran savvy to a young team led by Bueckers. Berger’s experience and leadership could prove invaluable as the Wings navigate the challenges of a competitive Western Conference.
Paige Bueckers’ rapid ascent has been one of the most exciting storylines in the WNBA this season. Her ability to score, distribute, and defend has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s top veterans. Her selection as a starter in the All-Star Game reflects her impact and the respect she commands across the league.
Meanwhile, Grace Berger’s journey back to the WNBA highlights the unpredictable nature of professional sports careers. After being waived by the Lynx and a brief appearance with the Sparks, this opportunity with Dallas could be a turning point. Her collegiate achievements at Indiana, where she ranks seventh all-time in scoring and second in assists, combined with her winning pedigree as the school’s all-time leader in victories, underscore her potential to contribute meaningfully to the Wings.
The Wings’ fans are eager to see how this blend of youthful talent and veteran presence will translate on the court. The team’s struggles last season and early this year have tested their resolve, but with the All-Star break offering a moment to regroup, the Wings are eyeing a resurgence.
Looking ahead, the Wings’ schedule remains challenging, with key games against playoff contenders. The performances of Bueckers and Berger, along with the health and return of injured players, will be critical factors in Dallas’ push to climb the standings.
As the WNBA season progresses, the Dallas Wings’ story is one of rebuilding and resilience. The infusion of Grace Berger’s experience complements the rising star power of Paige Bueckers, creating a dynamic that could reshape the team’s fortunes. All eyes will be on the Wings as they take the court post-All-Star weekend, aiming to turn their season around and build a foundation for future success.
