“Imagine Caitlin Clark had done this”: Hoops fans react as Paige Bueckers reportedly set to pull a “full Eli Manning” 

The basketball world has been buzzing with speculation following reports that UConn star Paige Bueckers may be planning to steer her WNBA draft destination, similar to Eli Manning's infamous move in the NFL draft two decades ago. According to reports and fans dissecting the situation, Bueckers might use her leverage to avoid being selected by the Dallas Wings as she may not see the team as the right fit for her, sparking intense online debate.

A video posted by Mick Talks Hoops on YouTube on Saturday discussed Bueckers' situation.

One comment highlighted the double standard in how athletes are perceived.

“Imagine if Caitlin Clark had done this. She would have been savaged if Clark had done such a thing,” a fan said.

A fan comments about Caitlin Clark's WNBA Draft situation (image credit: youtube/micktalkshoops)

Others also dropped their thoughts about the reports.

"Sparks would have to give up a HAUL," a fan commented.

"The only problem is everyone is giving their own opinions, trying to guess what she's going to do," another fan said.

"Can anyone imagine a class act like CC22 "big timing" anyone?" a fan said.

Other fans react to the Caitlin Clark WNBA draft situation (image credit: youtube/micktalkshoops)

This comparison isn’t without historical context. Manning refused to play for the San Diego Chargers after being selected first overall in the 2004 NFL draft. Manning’s camp reportedly orchestrated a trade to the New York Giants, leading to a career that included two Super Bowl championships. Fans now wonder if Bueckers might chart a similar path to protect her brand and career trajectory.

Paige Bueckers shares focus on growth and aggressiveness

UConn star Paige Bueckers has been a force in women’s college basketball, and despite her success, she remains committed to improving her game. Bueckers opened up about her desire to be more aggressive on the court and how she balances personal growth with her team’s dynamics.

“It is going well,” Bueckers said on Wednesday, via USA Today's 'For The Win.' “It is all a toss-up because you don’t want to get outside of yourself and outside of the team and start shot-hunting.

"But I’m looking to be aggressive first and look for my shot, and that leads to distribution to others and getting my teammates open. I think I’ve done a pretty good job. I’m growing every single day.”

The senior guard has earned a reputation as a playmaker and leader, but she’s also aware of the areas in her game that require improvement. For Bueckers, stepping up her aggressiveness is about finding the right balance between taking charge offensively and staying true to her team-first mentality.

“I can only get better from here as well,” Bueckers said. “It is all part of the new challenges that this year has presented. We are very young and we don’t have a ton of experience.

"So being a leader and having to use my voice and find that new challenge every single day, I’ve enjoyed growing and learning and embracing the ups and downs of it.”

Bueckers’ commitment to improving her leadership and aggressiveness comes at a critical time for UConn. As she continues to hone her skills and embrace her role as a leader, fans and analysts alike are excited to see how she further elevates her game.