Candace Parker sees Angel Reese’s potential, but she says the rookie has work to do. Parker says Reese is in the right place to thrive, but growing pains are part of the process. Speaking on “Spolitics with Jemele Hill,” the WNBA legend didn’t mince words: if the Chicago Sky wants to turn things around, it starts with Reese sharpening her offensive game and locking in on the details.
As of this writing, Chicago is languishing near the bottom of the WNBA standings with a 2-5 record. Losing Courtney Vandersloot to an ACL tear only made things worse. Now, all the pressure falls on Reese, Kamilla Cardoso, and Ariel Atkins.
Reese Must Find Her Go-To Moves and Fix Her Finishing Near the Basket
As for Reese’s development, Parker said it should all start with identifying her strengths.
“For me, the improvement comes from figuring out what you’re gonna be great at,” Parker said. “We already know she’s gonna be a great rebounder. But I think it’s really mastering her spots.”
Reese is averaging 9.1 points, 12.3 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.6 steals across seven games this season. However, she’s shooting just 30.9% from the field, and an abysmal 30.8% from inside the arc. According to Parker, the inefficiency is not just a matter of touch—it’s about knowing how and where to score.
“What is Angel Reese’s spot? What is her go-to? And then you master that,” Parker said. “A lot of people come in and try and get better at everything. But it’s the little tiny things.”
Parker, of course, should know what she’s saying. She is a two-time WNBA champion and Finals MVP. Parker did praise Sky head coach Tyler Marsh for developing Jackie Young’s shot in Las Vegas, turning her into a legitimate three-point threat.
“Tyler Marsh is one of the best coaches I have ever played for,” Parker said. “He’s the most knowledgeable person. He’s a great skill developer. He almost single-handedly turned Jackie Young’s shot into what it is.”
Parker Believes Reese Has Untapped Defensive Potential and Must Block Out the Noise
Parker also pointed out that Reese has the physical tools to become a defensive problem for opposing teams.
“In terms of basketball IQ, we haven’t even talked about her on the defensive end,” she said. “I think she could be a problem just with her length, activity, and athleticism.”
As public narratives around Reese continue to swirl—often comparing her to Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark—Parker urged fans and media to avoid the trap.
“It’s like comparing apples and oranges,” she explained. “I’m not falling into that. I’m not into the comparison.”
Candace Parker on Caitlin Clark – Angel Reese “RIVALRY”:
“It’s like comparing apples and oranges. I’m not falling into that. I think there are a number of things that AR can improve on. The thing about Caitlin, yes, she can shoot from the logo, but she makes her team better.” pic.twitter.com/UTjsZfcgNu
— AK (@Sudharsan_AK10) June 9, 2025
Instead, Parker stressed that Reese’s progress will depend on staying focused and tuning out distractions.
“From that standpoint, I think tuning out the noise [is key],” Parker added. “I think there are a number of things Angel can improve on—and will improve on—given her situation.”
Parker’s message was clear: development takes time, but with the right guidance and focus, Reese has the tools to become one of the league’s most dominant forwards.