The Dallas Wings are finally ready to tip off—and fans couldn't be more excited. After months of anticipation, the team will make its preseason debut Thursday night against the Indiana Fever in Indianapolis (7 p.m. ET, ION).

This game carries a special storyline: it marks the unofficial on-court reunion of Paige Bueckers and Azzi Fudd. The dynamic duo last shared a court while winning an NCAA national championship together, and the natural question is whether they can recreate that magic in the WNBA. While the potential is undeniable, don't expect it to fully materialize Thursday—or even this season.

As analyst Zack Ward recently highlighted, teams with back-to-back No. 1 picks typically need time to build consistent success. For Dallas, modest improvement is the realistic goal. But modest expectations don't mean muted excitement—there's plenty to watch for.

One key factor will be backcourt chemistry between Bueckers, Fudd, and veteran star Arike Ogunbowale. That process, however, hasn't started yet: Ogunbowale is still finishing her WCBA stint and hasn't arrived in Dallas. Meanwhile, head coach Jose Fernandez is laser-focused on the defensive end. He's identified defense and rebounding as the team's top priorities—though he didn't exactly rave about early progress. When asked if he liked what he'd seen in practice, Fernandez replied bluntly: "No. But we'll get it right."

So, Wings fans, what are you looking for in this first glimpse? Do you want to see Paige assert herself aggressively as a scorer, or would you prefer the playmaker version who gets everyone involved? And for Azzi—nothing will feel sweeter than watching her knock down that first three-pointer. Do you hope she plays with the green light to fire away?

One thing is certain: the basketball is back, and the journey is just beginning. Whether you're tracking chemistry, defense, or individual performances, this preseason opener is your first chance to see the future take shape.