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WNBA Legend Candace Parker Has Strong Words For Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Chris Phelps | Last updated Jul 2, 2025 6:15 PM ET

The WNBA has been in the spotlight like never before since Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark and Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese entered the league in 2024. And former Los Angeles Sparks star Candace Parker would agree.

The rivalry between Clark and Reese has remained a hot topic going into their second season. The two started their rivalry in college, when Reese's LSU defeated Clark's Iowa in the national championship game.

But it has continued into the WNBA, where Clark and Reese have already gone head-to-head six times in just two seasons. The Fever point guard holds the edge in professional play with a 5-1 record.

In addition to the spotlight Clark and Reese have brought to the WNBA, the numbers speak for themselves. Their arrival helped the league set records for both viewership and attendance last season. However, the surge in visibility has also brought challenges, including increased negativity from some fans.

On Friday, Parker appeared on the latest episode of "All Facts No Brakes with Keyshawn Johnson," where they discussed some of the challenges facing the WNBA. Parker emphasized that despite the noise, Clark and Reese have been good for the game.

"I do believe anything you say is going to be critiqued or changed in different ways," Parker said. "Any sound bite that you take can be changed into whatever. Let’s just get this straight. Have they grown the game? 100%. Has their rivalry helped in that? 100%. Is Caitlin Clark a freaking baller? Is she a generational player? Is she fun to watch? 100%.”

Parker became one of the greatest players in WNBA history during her 16-year career. She won three WNBA championships and two WNBA MVP awards, along with earning two Olympic gold medals. Parker retired following the 2023 season, one year before Clark and Reese transitioned to the WNBA.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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