In a recent WNBA general manager survey, Paige Bueckers of the Dallas Wings emerged as the top pick to build a franchise around, outpacing both Caitlin Clark and A'ja Wilson. The survey, reported by ESPN's Michael Voepel, showed Bueckers securing 33% of the vote, while Clark and Wilson each garnered 20%. While this might raise eyebrows among fans of Clark and the Indiana Fever, it's important to put it in perspective: Bueckers is a rising star in her own right, and tying with a four-time MVP and three-time champion like Wilson is no small feat.

Clark's resume certainly makes a strong case for her. She's already a two-time WNBA All-Star, earned All-WNBA First Team honors in 2024, and was named Rookie of the Year. During her debut season with the Fever, she averaged 19.2 points, 8.4 assists, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.3 steals, shooting 41.7% from the field and 34.4% from beyond the arc. However, injuries limited her to just 13 games last season, which may have influenced some GMs' decisions.

Beyond on-court performance, Clark's impact off the court is undeniable. Since being drafted first overall in 2024, the Indiana Fever's franchise valuation has skyrocketed by 522%, making the team worth six times more than before her arrival. That kind of financial lift is hard to ignore when considering a franchise cornerstone.

As for championship aspirations, the WNBA GM survey didn't favor the Fever, placing them outside the top three teams most likely to win the 2026 title. The Las Vegas Aces led the way with 40% of the vote, followed by the New York Liberty at 33% and the Atlanta Dream at 27%.

Whether you lean toward Bueckers' potential, Clark's proven star power, or Wilson's legendary status, this survey underscores the incredible depth of talent in the WNBA today.