While Paige Bueckers had the opportunity to join Caitlin Clark in the WNBA as part of this year’s rookie class, the UConn superstar chose to return to college for another season. Despite this, Bueckers has closely followed Clark’s debut season in the WNBA, where she was the No. 1 overall pick by the Indiana Fever.
Bueckers has expressed her admiration for Clark’s performance and her significant influence on the sport. “Caitlin has brought so many new eyes to the game, and we appreciate that. When people tune in to watch her, they leave the game fans of so many more. I think the game is growing a lot. People are learning about the W and how great it is,” Bueckers said. She added, “I think the rookie class is doing extremely well… It’s fun to watch.”
Bueckers’ decision to stay at UConn for her senior year has solidified her position as one of the leading figures in college basketball. As she gears up for another season with the Huskies, she remains a top prospect for the 2025 WNBA Draft.
Paige on Caitlin Clark and the WNBA pic.twitter.com/3wpV2fDCeU
— Lori Riley (@lrileysports) June 28, 2024
Meanwhile, Clark and the Indiana Fever are preparing for a highly anticipated matchup against the Phoenix Mercury on Sunday afternoon. Clark’s impressive start in the WNBA and her ability to attract new fans to women’s basketball underscores her growing legacy in the sport.
As Bueckers continues to shine at the collegiate level, her journey and Clark’s rookie season highlight the bright future of women’s basketball, driven by young talents who are reshaping the game’s landscape. The dynamic between these two players, though not direct rivals yet, adds an exciting narrative to the evolving story of women’s sports.