As the 2025 WNBA season approaches, fans are excited to see not only Caitlin Clark begin her sophomore season with the Indiana Fever but also the arrival of another rising star in women’s basketball, Paige Bueckers. The UConn Huskies guard, widely expected to be the No. 1 pick in the upcoming WNBA draft, is set to join the Dallas Wings. Bueckers, known for her sharp shooting and dynamic playmaking, has been a standout in the Big East, and with the draft lottery results positioning her for Dallas, she’s primed to make a major impact in the WNBA.
Ahead of her transition to the professional league, Bueckers shared a thoughtful and inspiring quote about Caitlin Clark, who has already made a tremendous mark on the game. “Caitlin brought so much new attention to the rise of women’s college basketball and the WNBA, and women’s sports in general,” Bueckers said. “I feel like the weight of the world is on her shoulders. And she just has this heavy burden to carry and she does it with grace and humility.” These words reflect Bueckers’ admiration for Clark, who has become one of the most recognized faces in women’s basketball after her record-breaking debut season in the WNBA.
Clark’s journey has not been without its challenges, and Bueckers is likely to face her own set of hurdles as she embarks on her rookie year in the WNBA. Last spring, when asked about stepping into Clark’s spotlight, Bueckers responded humbly, emphasizing the importance of sharing the stage with others. “I think it’s more important for the game to share the spotlight,” Bueckers said. “I honestly hope next year I’m not the focal point and the only person that gets attention. I hope as media, as players, we can spread the love a little bit more.”
Bueckers’ thoughtful approach to the spotlight highlights her commitment to uplifting the entire women’s basketball community. As she prepares for her professional debut, Bueckers’ attitude mirrors the humility and leadership that Clark has displayed throughout her career. With the Wings set to select first overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft, it seems both Bueckers and Clark will continue to shape the future of women’s basketball as they take their talents to the next level.
