Basketball has always been about rivalries, comparisons, and arguments over who is the best. While fans enjoy debating and ranking stars against each other, so do the players themselves.
When WNBA legend Candace Parker recently discussed Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, she made it clear that Clark stands in a league of her own. She called Clark a “generational talent,” but didn’t give Reese the same recognition.
Candace Parker Praises Caitlin Clark, Disses Angel Reese
During her recent appearance on Jemele Hill’s “Spolitics” podcast, Parker dismissed comparisons between Clark and Reese, both of whom are the same age (23) and debuted last year after being drafted in the first round.
“I just think that it’s like comparing apples and oranges, Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese,” the former superstar said. “It’s like, what are we doing?”
Parker praised Clark’s impact on the court and blossoming chemistry with teammate Aliyah Boston, which has helped the Indiana Fever get off to a 4-4 start despite losing Clark to a quad injury. Meanwhile, Reese’s Chicago Sky have struggled out of the gate at 2-5.
“Her and Aliyah Boston’s connection has really improved,” said the former TV analyst and current president of women’s basketball of Adidas. “I think the thing about Caitlyn — yes, she can shoot from the logo — but she makes her team better.”
As for Reese, Parker noted a few areas where she still has room for improvement despite being one of the league’s best rebounders.
“I think just in terms for her, it’s going to be moving. What are you doing without the ball in your hands? And I think it’s going to be taking care of the ball for her,” Parker said.
Candace Parker Understands What Caitlin Clark is Going Through
Parker, who won two MVP awards and made seven All-Star teams during his 16-year career, knows what it’s like to be in Clark’s shoes. Clark has been frequently targeted by other WNBA players on and off the court since debuting last year and has taken her share of physical shots.
“When you are a generational talent…You’re gonna experience the physicality. The scouting report is to stop you,” Parker said. “Was I the rookie coming in and got shots taken at me? Oh yeah.”
Parker, 39, was one of the faces of the WNBA during the 2010s. However, the sport has transitioned into a new era led by young stars like Clark, Reese, and Paige Bueckers.
It’s an exciting time for WNBA fans with new rivalries forming and stars emerging, including the beef between Reese and Clark. Clark has proven to be the better player so far, according to Parker, but there’s still plenty of time for Reese to grow and potentially challenge her throne.