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Caitlin Clark no longer tops WNBA GMsâ franchise player rankings
TL;DR
Caitlin Clark is no longer the top choice for WNBA franchise players, with Paige Bueckers now preferred by general managers. This shift highlights the rapid changes in player perceptions within the league.
Key points
- Caitlin Clark was the top choice among WNBA GMs last year.
- Paige Bueckers has overtaken Clark in the latest GM survey.
- The rankings reflect changing perceptions of young talent in the league.
Caitlin ClarkPaige BueckersDallas Wings
Caitlin Clark no longer tops WNBA GMsâ franchise player rankings originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
A year ago, Caitlin Clark was the clear choice among WNBA general managers when asked which player they would build a franchise around. Heading into the 2026 season, that conversation looks very different.
The latest WNBA GM survey delivered one of the more surprising results of the preseason, with Dallas Wings star Paige Bueckers overtaking Clark as the leagueâs preferred franchise cornerstone.
For Clark, the shift shows how quickly perceptions can change in a league filled with elite young talent. But it also sets up one of the most fascinating storylines entering the new season, especially with Clark and Bueckers preparing to meet on opening night.
Paige Bueckers jumps ahead of Caitlin Clark in GM survey
The WNBA released its annual GM survey ahead of the leagueâs 30th season, and one question stood out above the rest:
âIf you were starting a franchise today and could sign any player in the WNBA, who would it be?â
Bueckers finished first with 33 percent of the vote. Clark and tied for second at 20 percent each. followed with 13 percent, while and also received votes. The results marked a noticeable change from last seasonâs survey, when Clark earned 50 percent of the vote after her historic rookie campaign with the .
Q&A
Why did Caitlin Clark lose her top ranking among WNBA franchise players?
Caitlin Clark lost her top ranking due to Paige Bueckers being favored by WNBA general managers in the latest survey.
Who is the new top franchise player in the WNBA according to GMs?
Paige Bueckers of the Dallas Wings is now the preferred franchise player among WNBA general managers.
What implications does the change in franchise player rankings have for the upcoming WNBA season?
The change in rankings sets up an intriguing storyline for the upcoming season, particularly with Clark and Bueckers facing each other on opening night.