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6d ago

Lisa Leslie Rebukes WNBA GMs for Choosing Bueckers Over Clark as Franchise Cornerstone

The Hall of Famer says franchise building starts with the player who moves revenue.

Apr 30, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) and Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers (5) during an inbounds play in the first half at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • Leslie, who weighed in on ESPN’s First Take Thursday, blasted the WNBA GM survey that put Paige Bueckers at 33% for the “start a franchise” question with Caitlin Clark at 20%.
  • She argued a GM’s job includes driving business and said Clark uniquely fills bigger arenas, lifts ticket demand, and pulls national attention.
  • Executives’ tilt toward Bueckers reflects her on‑court rise with Dallas, including Rookie of the Year honors in 2025 and averages of 19.2 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 5.4 assists.
  • Clark’s case rests on both performance and draw, with a rookie year that led the league in assists and a top‑four MVP finish, followed by an injury‑shortened 2025 and careful minutes to open 2026.
  • The league’s stakes are higher this season with broader TV windows, including every one of Indiana’s 44 games on national TV, sharpening the divide between basketball fit and commercial impact.