Candace Parker, a respected figure in women’s basketball, has shared her candid thoughts on the WNBA’s evolving landscape as Caitlin Clark’s debut season garners historic levels of attention. Parker, who has long advocated for the league’s growth, views the current moment as pivotal.
As Clark leads a new wave of stars reshaping the league’s narrative, Parker’s voice offers a critical perspective, staying committed to the development and support of the W’s future.
Candace Parker Shares Perspective as Caitlin Clark Ushers in New WNBA Era
Parker, one of the most influential figures in women’s basketball, offered a clear and measured perspective on the WNBA’s current trajectory during a June 3 appearance on “First Take.” With Clark, Angel Reese and a wave of young stars transforming the league’s visibility, Parker addressed growing conversations around appreciation, legacy, and progress in the sport she recently stepped away from.
Responding to Stephen A. Smith’s question about whether past players feel overlooked amid the spotlight on new talent, Parker dismissed any sense of bitterness.
“It’s so crazy to me, because I’m asked so many times if I’m resentful in any type of way for where the WNBA is right now,” she said. “My job was to leave the game better than where I came into it.”
“I’m asked so many times if I’m resentful in any type of way for where the WNBA is right now. My job was to leave the game better than I came into it. … I think that the WNBA as a whole is in an amazing place.”
—@Candace_Parker on the current state of the WNBA pic.twitter.com/69WDAZtQ98
— First Take (@FirstTake) June 3, 2025
Parker drew a meaningful parallel with past generations, highlighting how trailblazers like Cheryl Miller never showed resentment, only support.
“You think Cheryl Miller is resentful for me that I had a league to play in? No. She’s being the mentor that she is, and she’s supporting and loving… and I’m doing the same for Caitlin Clark and all the women in the WNBA,” she said.
Her reflections pointed to a broader understanding of growth and generational progress.
“There are some talented players that have been in this league,” she said, noting that increased visibility is key to expanding the sport’s reach. “I still know the Dominique Wilkins… the Dr. J’s… I don’t think they’re salty that MJ came along and grew the game. That’s what it is.”
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Parker emphasized that rivalries and media chatter have a place, but the focus should remain grounded.
“I think that rivalry is super important. I think conversation is super important… but I want to keep it within the lines of the game,” she said. “Now everybody has a Twitter finger… but really the key is: let’s keep it about basketball.”
That message — “let’s keep it about basketball” — served as the foundation of Parker’s remarks. Her tone reflected both pride and clarity about where the league stands.
“The WNBA as a whole is in an amazing place,” she said. Still, Parker urged continued investment in infrastructure, pushing for more roster spots and deeper development: “You gotta lean into the player growth.”
As the WNBA accelerates into a new era, Parker remains a steady and unifying voice — committed to honoring the past, embracing the present, and helping shape the league’s future.
