'She’s Incredible': Candace Parker Defends Caitlin Clark Amid Injury

In a recent interview with TMZ Sports, Parker addressed the growing criticism and physicality Clark faces in the league. Her message was short and direct.

“Star players never get a fair shake,” Parker said.

Parker, who dealt with similar challenges during her own Hall of Fame-caliber career, has consistently defended Clark’s ability to handle the spotlight and physical style of play that comes with being a marquee name in the league. While some fans and analysts have questioned whether officials are doing enough to protect Clark, Parker has taken a broader view.

She emphasized that heightened physicality is part of the WNBA’s competitive landscape, especially for stars who garner national attention.

“She’s incredible,” Parker added. “She’s great. I think she has many years of greatness ahead of her. It’s been great to watch her play.”

Candace Parker’s Legacy Ties to Clark’s Rise

Parker’s comments carry added weight because of the parallels in their careers. Both were national sensations entering the league, drew record-breaking crowds, and have helped push women’s basketball forward, on and off the court.

Clark has already matched Parker’s career triple-double total (three), something Parker called “awesome” and “great.” It’s part of a broader theme Parker has emphasized in her public statements: Clark’s production and professionalism speak for themselves.

The former Sky and Sparks star has also applauded Clark’s poise under pressure and her role in elevating the WNBA’s visibility.

Caitlin Clark’s Injury and the Indiana Fever’s Next Steps

Clark is currently recovering from a left quad strain and is expected to miss at least two weeks. Her absence has impacted both the Fever’s on-court performance and ticket sales, as she leads the team in scoring and assists and remains the biggest draw in the league.

With Clark sidelined, the Fever have turned to veteran guard Sydney Colson to fill the starting point guard role. Indiana will host the Connecticut Sun tomorrow at Bankers Life Fieldhouse, looking to earn their third win of the season after dropping their first three games.

Despite the setback, Clark’s presence continues to loom large over the team and the league.

No Soft Welcomes in the WNBA

Parker’s message also speaks to a wider truth about the WNBA: talent alone is not enough. Fame doesn’t intimidate anyone. Every young player—no matter how decorated—must prove themselves nightly.

“There are no soft welcomes in this league,” Parker said earlier this season. “You have to earn your place every night.”

With her blend of performance, maturity, and media impact, Parker believes Clark is doing exactly that—even as she recovers.

“She’ll be fine,” Parker said. “She already is.”