Caitlin Clark Comparison Doesn't Concern Dallas Wings Rookie Paige Bueckers

Paige Bueckers marked her WNBA debut by featuring in the pre-season game against the Las Vegas Aces on Friday. Though the Wings fell against the Aces in a 112-78 blowout, the former UConn guard attracted loud cheers from the crowd as she made her first few buckets in the W. Bueckers finished the night with 10 points four rebounds, and one assist while adding a couple three-pointers for the team. She had a solid debut in her 23 minutes on the floor, scoring 4-of-7 from the field.

Though the Wings fell to a lopsided loss in Paige's first ever professional WNBA game, it did not stop her from maintaining her composure. This is exactly what she carried through further when the Caitlin Clark comparisons started pouring in right after her debut.

Undoubtedly, Caitlin Clark has made her mark as the official face of the WNBA. But for Paige? She still has a lot of sum to prove. So, when all such pressures and expectations start pouring in, the 2025 NCAA champion knew how to handle such heat in the most calm and composed manner possible. Let's find out how Paige deals with such heat and expectations from media and fans as one of the most highly touted prospects to enter the WNBA.

Paige Bueckers speaks on Caitlin Clark Comparisons

When asked about dealing with expectations amid such comparisons, Bueckers said, “No expectations. I feel like that comes from an outside source so just building with the team here.”

She further added, “[I'm] trying to get better every single day like I talk about every single time. Don't worry about expectations.” Indeed, Bueckers sounded quite confident and straight about how she means business in the league. And by business, it's about getting buckets and wins for the team.

It's unfortunate that the Dallas Wings had to face a blowout in Paige's very first game. However, since it's pre-season, let's just assume that the rookie star is trying to find her footing with her new team and is doing so pretty good so far.

Furthermore, Bueckers isn't quite bothered to be a media personality either. “I don't see myself as a celebrity. I'm just a basketball player,” said Bueckers, after the game. As of now, Bueckers has identified “screen navigation” as a challenge that she looks to overcome. However, as Dallas Wings coach Chris Koclanes told Bueckers, she needs to “play present and not perfect.”

Paige Bueckers indeed is doing an incredible job maintaining her composure. Amidst all the spotlight and attention, her focus has been laser sharp: to play pure hoops and lead herself and the team to glory in the WNBA.