WNBA analyst makes feelings clear on Caitlin Clark-Paige Bueckers' 'manufactured beef'

The 2025 WNBA season hasn't started, but it seems like there's a new rivalry brewing between Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers. However, ESPN women’s basketball analyst Elle Duncan wants everyone to hold off on comparing the two stars.

Speaking on Tuesday's episode of "The Elle Duncan Show," the West Georgia product called the Clark-Bueckers rivalry “manufactured beef.” She said whatever they do on and off the court won’t impact each other. Some fans expressed frustration that Bueckers received her player-exclusive shoe from Nike before Clark was awarded a signature shoe.

"Any time one of them does something really, there's always instant comparison with the other," Duncan said. "There was news this week that Paige Bueckers will become the first NIL athlete to launch a Nike Player Edition shoe. ... One benefitting from something doesn't mean anything to the other." (2:28 - 3:14)

Just like Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers is expected to be the No. 1 pick in the WNBA Draft. The Dallas Wings are likely to select her unless she decides against turning pro. Bueckers has one more year of eligibility due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Bueckers is trying to help the UConn Huskies win their first NCAA championship since 2016. The team last made the title game in 2022, losing to the South Carolina Gamecocks. The Huskies are currently 7-0 to start the season, following a win over the Holy Cross Crusaders on Tuesday.

The Minnesota native is averaging 20.4 points, 4.9 rebounds and 5.3 assists per game this season.

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Caitlin Clark's financial impact on WNBA and Indianapolis

Caitlin Clark's financial impact on WNBA and Indianapolis. (Photo: IMAGN)

Caitlin Clark's financial impact on the WNBA and the city of Indianapolis is one of the clearest examples of her influence. IndyStar recently interviewed financial valuation expert Dr. Ryan Brewer, who was astonished by his findings.

Brewer said he had to repeatedly recalculate before realizing the magnitude of Clark’s star power. He estimated that Clark accounted for at least 26.5% of WNBA revenue last season. The Indiana Fever star boosted attendance, merchandise sales and broadcast ratings.

Clark also generated an estimated $36 million for Indianapolis — more than many NBA stars bring to their respective cities. Despite these staggering numbers, Clark’s rookie salary was just $76,535.

The league has faced criticism from analysts about its handling of Clark's rookie season, with many suggesting it should focus on promoting her as a star.