When it comes to building a WNBA dynasty from the ground up, general managers have spoken—and their pick might surprise you.

In the 2026 WNBA GM Survey, Dallas Wings guard Paige Bueckers was voted the top player executives would sign if they were starting a franchise today. Bueckers secured 33 percent of the vote, edging out Indiana Fever superstar Caitlin Clark and Las Vegas Aces legend A'ja Wilson, who tied for second with 20 percent each.

This marks a major shift from last year's survey, when Clark dominated the same category with a commanding 50 percent of the vote. But make no mistake—Clark hasn't slipped from the WNBA's elite. She still earned votes as a franchise cornerstone, finished second in the "best point guard" category behind Chelsea Gray, and remains a fixture in MVP conversations.

So what's behind Bueckers' rapid rise? It's not just her individual talent. GMs are buying into the entire Dallas vision. The Wings were voted as the team that made the best offseason moves, the league's most improved team, and the most fun team to watch. From savvy roster additions to a young, electric core, Dallas is generating serious buzz.

Clark, meanwhile, remains one of the league's brightest stars and most dangerous offensive weapons. And Wilson? She's the gold standard of consistency, with 60 percent of GMs picking her to win MVP this season.

But this survey question cuts to the chase: if you're starting a franchise with a blank slate, who gets the keys? That answer now belongs to Bueckers—and it adds even more intrigue to every Wings-Fever showdown this season. Get ready for must-watch basketball.