Paige Bueckers, the Dallas Wings’ top draft pick this year, has criticized the media, labeling it as a reflection of “white privilege.”
Bueckers, a standout player during her time with the UConn Huskies, is being recognized as one of the most prominent figures in the rookie class of 2025.
Though she hasn’t yet participated in a WNBA regular season game, she’s already addressing the issue of race and its impact on media coverage of the league.
As highlighted by various outlets, Bueckers has been vocal about matters of white privilege since at least 2021, when she echoed similar sentiments during the ESPY Awards. After being honored as one of the best women’s college athletes, she remarked that black athletes “do not receive the media attention they deserve.”
This week, in an interview with Time magazine, she reiterated her stance, claiming that black players are consistently overlooked.
“This is still an ongoing issue,” she asserted. “There’s never an equal level of coverage.”
“Every day, I witness white privilege in action,” she added. “I work hard and feel fortunate, yet I believe I have more opportunities. It often seems like support is skewed towards white individuals, whether men or women. I recognize that privilege exists.”
The WNBA, which was established in 1996, has predominantly promoted black players as its stars for much of its history. Over the past three decades, only a few white athletes have reached similar stardom. However, with the rise of Indiana Fever’s Kate Clark, discussions of “white privilege” have resurfaced, and the media is increasingly focused on these themes regarding Clark’s success.
Clark herself weighed in on the conversation during 2024, stating that black players hadn’t been given their due representation.
“I want to acknowledge my achievements, but as a white person, I recognize my privilege,” Clark expressed thoughtfully in a broader statement about diversity and inclusion. “Many of the league’s standout players have been black, and this league has been built on their contributions. It’s important to emphasize their impact and continue to support the individuals who have made this league remarkable.”
