The debate is heating up — and now, the decision-makers are finally weighing in.
In a recent anonymous poll conducted among WNBA general managers, insiders opened up about the biggest question in women’s college hoops: Who would they take — Paige Bueckers or Caitlin Clark?

The results? Eye-opening. The quotes? Spicy. And the implications? Huge.

Clark vs. Bueckers: The Face-Off We’ve Been Waiting For

Both Caitlin Clark (Iowa) and Paige Bueckers (UConn) have dominated headlines for years — not just for their jaw-dropping talent, but for how they’ve reshaped the perception of women’s basketball in the NCAA.

Clark, known for her deep three-point range, elite vision, and record-breaking scoring.

Bueckers, praised for her poise, court IQ, efficiency, and clutch performances.

While fans and analysts have gone back and forth over who’s better, this time it’s the WNBA general managers — the people whose job it is to draft, build, and bet on the future — finally giving their take.

What The GMs Really Think

According to the leaked poll results (via an unnamed league source), here’s how it shook out:

58% said they’d draft Caitlin Clark #1 overall
42% picked Paige Bueckers as their top choice

But it’s the comments behind the numbers that really got people talking.

“Caitlin is the Steph Curry of the women’s game. Her range and confidence are unmatched. She changes the geometry of the court.” — One GM said.

“Paige is surgical. She doesn’t just score — she elevates everyone around her. She’s a culture-builder.” — Another exec added.

One GM even said:

“Paige may have the higher long-term ceiling if she stays healthy. She’s the kind of player you build a franchise around — low ego, high impact.”

Another countered:

“Clark puts fans in seats and points on the board. You don’t pass on that.”

The Injury Factor

Paige Bueckers’ injury history was also a major talking point. While she returned strong in the 2024–25 season, some GMs still raised concerns about durability. Others believe she’s fully back and even smarter, stronger, and more efficient than before.

Clark, meanwhile, has been incredibly durable throughout her college career, averaging 30+ minutes per game and carrying Iowa deep into tournament runs.

“Durability matters. Paige’s game is beautiful, but Clark’s been a warrior every night.”

Off-Court Impact: Who’s the Bigger Star?

Both players are media darlings, with massive social followings, NIL deals, and sold-out arenas. But many execs noted that Clark has become the face of women’s college hoops over the last two years — driving TV ratings and mainstream buzz like few athletes before her.

“Caitlin brings eyes to the league. She’s a marketing dream. But Paige brings calm — she’s the kind of player who makes you believe in the long-term plan.”

Bottom Line? There’s No Wrong Answer — But the Stakes Are Real

With both players eligible for the 2025 WNBA Draft, teams are already positioning themselves for what could be one of the most talent-heavy draft classes in league history. And if one team has the choice between Paige and Caitlin?

It may come down to what kind of franchise they want to be — flash and fire, or fundamentals and finesse.

Either way, GMs agree on one thing: these two are the future of the WNBA. And they’re going to define the next generation of women’s basketball.