In the ever-evolving landscape of women’s basketball, media coverage has become a defining force — shaping narratives, boosting popularity, and, unfortunately, sometimes revealing bias. That was clear to many fans and analysts during the highly anticipated return of Paige Bueckers, as glaring double standards emerged in how her debut was portrayed compared to other top stars, like Caitlin Clark.

While Bueckers’ talent is undeniable and her comeback from injury is nothing short of inspirational, the disparity in media tone, coverage volume, and framing has reignited an uncomfortable question:
Are all women’s basketball stars treated equally — or only when it fits a specific narrative?

Paige Bueckers: A Star Returns

Paige Bueckers, the former National Player of the Year and UConn standout, made her official return after nearly two years sidelined due to injury. Her return was a long time coming — and it didn’t disappoint.

She dropped a solid stat line, showed flashes of her elite court vision and shot-making, and was greeted with thunderous applause from UConn fans. Her comeback was more than just a basketball story — it was a moment of resilience and heart.

But when the dust settled, many couldn’t help but notice something strange…

 The Coverage: Hype vs. Silence

While ESPN, Bleacher Report, and other outlets acknowledged Bueckers’ return, the depth and energy of the coverage felt muted compared to similar moments — particularly Caitlin Clark’s debut in both college and the WNBA.

Here’s what fans and critics pointed out:

No live broadcast of her return game on a major network, despite her status as a top-tier name.

Minimal push on social media from official WNBA/NCAA channels.

Tame headlines that lacked the urgency or drama often used in covering other stars.

In contrast, Caitlin Clark’s games have been nationally televised, with pre-game interviews, full segments, and post-game analysis.

On platforms like X (formerly Twitter), fans began asking:

“If this was Clark or Reese, would it have been a primetime special?”

 Double Standards: Media Bias in Women’s Sports?

It’s no secret that media narratives in women’s sports are often uneven. Whether it’s race, marketability, school allegiance, or simply media familiarity, not all athletes are given equal footing.

In Paige Bueckers’ case, the lack of major promotion felt contradictory. She’s a white, marketable, former No. 1-ranked recruit, who plays for a legendary UConn program — the kind of profile media usually embraces.

So why the disconnect?

Some argue it’s simply due to timing or “media fatigue.” Others suggest the focus has shifted entirely to newer stars like Clark, Angel Reese, or JuJu Watkins. But some fans and journalists have a more direct take: the media picks and chooses who to elevate — and when it’s inconvenient, they minimize.

 What This Says About the Game

Paige Bueckers’ return should have been a full-circle story of triumph. Instead, it became a case study in inconsistency — showing how even stars with elite resumes can be left behind when the spotlight moves elsewhere.

This moment reminds us that women’s basketball deserves better. Not just more coverage — but fair, consistent, and unbiased coverage. Every player who puts in the work, overcomes adversity, and performs at the highest level deserves recognition — not just those who align with the current media favorite.

Final Thought

Paige Bueckers’ debut was a win for UConn, for the sport, and for fans who know her story. But it was also a wake-up call:
The media still has a long way to go in treating women’s basketball with the nuance, depth, and equality it deserves.

Let’s celebrate all greatness — not just the trendy kind.