Paige Bueckers opens up honestly about Caitlin Clark rivalry

Paige Bueckers has offered a candid take on the much-discussed rivalry with Caitlin Clark, making it clear that the tension fans often assume exists is largely manufactured by outside voices.

The Dallas Wings standout has quickly become one of the WNBA’s brightest young stars since entering the league, much like Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark. With the pair going first overall in consecutive drafts, comparisons were inevitable, and the narrative of a head-to-head rivalry has followed them from college into the pros. But according to Bueckers, that storyline doesn’t reflect reality.

Appearing on Kylie Kelce’s Not Gonna Lie podcast earlier this week, Bueckers addressed the constant comparisons and pushed back against the idea that she and Clark are at odds. She explained that while the media often frames them as competitors who are supposed to dislike each other, their actual relationship is far more relaxed and respectful.

Bueckers said that she and Clark are on good terms and have been for a long time, noting that the supposed rivalry is something created externally rather than something that truly exists between them. While she acknowledged the competitive nature of elite athletes, she emphasized that mutual respect defines their dynamic more than any animosity.

The two stars are no strangers on the court. Their paths famously crossed during their college careers when UConn faced Iowa in the 2024 NCAA Final Four. That dramatic matchup drew unprecedented attention, becoming the most-watched women’s basketball game ever, with 14.2 million viewers tuning in. Iowa edged out UConn in a thrilling 71–69 win, further fueling the narrative of an intense personal rivalry between the two players.

Now, however, the circumstances surrounding Bueckers and Clark have shifted significantly. Instead of lining up against one another, the Wings and Fever guards are preparing to play side by side for Team USA at the FIBA World Cup in September. The duo has already had a taste of what that partnership could look like after practicing together at the USA Basketball senior camp held at Duke University in December.

Bueckers sounded genuinely enthusiastic about the idea of uniting two passionate fan bases that are often portrayed as being at odds. She joked that seeing supporters who typically clash come together to cheer for the same team could be a fun and powerful moment for the sport.

Ultimately, Bueckers’ comments highlight a broader point about modern sports culture: while rivalries can be compelling, they don’t always tell the full story. In this case, what’s often framed as a fierce personal battle is, in reality, a relationship built on respect, shared experiences, and a common goal of elevating women’s basketball.