Though the next WNBA season feels a bit distant, one storyline is already stealing the spotlight: the comparisons between reigning Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark and UConn redshirt senior Paige Bueckers. From the moment the No. 22 point guard made her WNBA debut, her impact was immediate, with packed arenas and a sharp increase in viewership. However, it seems Clark’s dominance may soon face some competition, as Bueckers has already garnered growing attention from fans. Recent updates from Dallas Wings suggest that interest in the talented UConn player is on the rise.

Earlier this week, the Dallas Wings secured the top pick in the upcoming lottery draft, a move that could significantly shape their future. With UConn star Paige Bueckers projected to go No. 1 in the 2025 draft, the Arlington-based franchise will likely land the standout guard. This potential addition has already had a noticeable effect on the team’s ticket sales. Reports indicate that the Wings have completely sold out of their Season Ticket Memberships for the next season.

For the second consecutive year, Dallas has sold out their season tickets, but this time, they’ve hit that milestone much earlier. In fact, they’ve managed to sell out a full five months ahead of last year’s pace. This rapid demand reflects the growing excitement around the team, fueled in part by the probable landing of UConn’s Paige Bueckers in the 2025 draft.

Caitlin Clark’s arrival undoubtedly brought a surge in popularity to the WNBA, with a noticeable spike in viewership during the draft. But Bueckers heading to the Dallas Wings has created a buzz of its own. The early sell-out is a powerful statement in itself, suggesting that Bueckers could soon rival, if not match, the influence Clark has had on the league.

Many would even say that Bueckers isn’t just matching Caitlin Clark’s impact on the league—she’s making her own mark. Just last month, she earned an accolade that the Fever star had received, further fueling the comparison between the two. This only adds weight to Charles Barkley’s earlier comments.

Paige Bueckers’ return and rising buzz: A glimpse into the future of the WNBA

Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers have already shared their fair share of debate, especially back in 2021 when they shared the Freshman of the Year. It sparked a divide, with some fans strongly believing the honor should’ve gone to Bueckers, while others made the case for Clark.

In fact, many even said that if the Husky did not have injury-laden seasons, she would be at the WNBA All-Star’s spot. Fast forward to today, while Clark is already making waves in the WNBA, Bueckers chose to return for her redshirt senior season at UConn.

But before her season kicked off, the No. 5 guard received some great news—she was named to the Preseason AP All-American Team, solidifying her place as currently one of the top players in the nation. Bueckers had a standout season last year, leading UConn to the Final Four while averaging 21.9 points per game and posting impressive stats in blocks (1.4) and steals (2.2).

Despite her stellar performance, UConn fell to Iowa, which featured Clark. Her AP All-American selection replicated an achievement also reached by her future WNBA rival.

Charles Barkley’s words about Paige Bueckers continue to echo as the UConn star makes her mark on the court. Barkley once said, “If that girl stays healthy, she is in the conversation with JuJu and Caitlin for the next 20 years.”

However, injuries have sidelined her at times, preventing her from fully realizing her immense potential. Now, with her impressive performances in the first four games, it’s clear that if she stays healthy, she could be a major force for years to come.

The Dallas Wings’ sold-out tickets are just a preview of what Paige Bueckers could bring to the WNBA next year. If this early buzz is any indication, her arrival could spark even more excitement and attention for the league.