Paige Bueckers' Teammate Defends Her Against Fan Comparison
The WNBA has seen renewed attention and growth in recent seasons, thanks to the arrival of standout talents like Caitlin Clark. Her debut with the Indiana Fever has drawn thousands of new fans, even though she played just 13 games this year due to injury. Despite limited appearances, Clark quickly made her mark during her first professional season.
Paige Bueckers, another rising star, also had a remarkable season. After leading UConn to an NCAA championship, she was selected first overall in the WNBA draft by the Dallas Wings. In her rookie year, she earned the 2025 Rookie of the Year award and became one of only ten rookies to start in the All-Star Game. Bueckers posted averages of 19.2 points, 5.4 assists, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.6 steals across 36 games.
Clark’s statistics were equally impressive before her injury, with averages of 16.5 points, 8.8 assists, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.6 steals in her 13 outings for the Fever.
Teammate Luisa Geiselsoder Speaks Out
The comparison between Bueckers and Clark has stirred conversation among fans. When one supporter suggested that Bueckers lacked a certain quality Clark possessed, Dallas Wings forward Luisa Geiselsoder publicly defended her teammate.
Luisa Geiselsoder praised Clark’s game but reaffirmed her opinion in favor of Paige Bueckers, highlighting her leadership and versatility on the court.
Her comments reinforced the mutual respect among WNBA players, even as fan debates often fuel rivalry narratives.
Author’s Summary
Bueckers' strong debut season and Geiselsoder’s defense of her underscore the mutual respect and evolving rivalries that continue to elevate the WNBA’s popularity.