WNBA Legend Candace Parker's True Feelings on Chicago Sky Trade

Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

WNBA Legend Candace Parker's True Feelings on Chicago Sky Trade

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Rolly Gacelo | Last updated Apr 20, 2026 10:55 PM ET

The Los Angeles Sparks have decided to move on from Rickea Jackson and, in return, received a player with winning experience.

The Sparks, who missed the playoffs for a fifth straight season, dealt Jackson to the Chicago Sky for Ariel Atkins, a two-time All-Star who won the title in 2019 with the Washington Mystics.

Sparks general manager Raegan Pebley hailed the acquisition of Atkins, noting the 29-year-old's impact on the floor with her past teams.

"She’s a champion, an elite defender, and someone who understands what it takes to win in big moments," Pebley said.

"Her professionalism, competitiveness, and versatility make her a perfect fit for our franchise and a key piece in our pursuit of a championship.”

Candace Parker shares a moment with Rickea Jackson during a 2023 NCAA game.Saul Young/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK

Atkins is a solid defender, and she has averaged double digits in scoring throughout her career. But was it really the right move?

WNBA legend Candace Parker believes Atkins will blend well with the Sparks and fulfill the team’s most urgent needs. However, Parker is not convinced that the team got equal value for Jackson; in her view, it should not have been a straight swap.

“I think Ariel Atkins fits what the Sparks are gonna do,” the Sparks legend during an appearance on the “Post Moves” podcast.

“I think Rickea Jackson is the player that you build around. She’s a straight hooper. And so, to trade her in a straight-up [player swap] with Ariel Atkins? To me — like I said, time will tell.”

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The comment section on the "Post Moves" Instagram account seems to agree with Parker saying Jackson is a franchise player.

"Chicago got a steal. Love Rickea. Only wish she was a Fever - need a Lady Vol. ❤️❤️❤️❤️," one commenter wrote.

"You are right i can’t believe the sparks did not get a future 1st round picks or picks," said another.

Jackson was the Sparks' fourth overall pick in 2024. She made the All-Rookie Team that season after averaging 13.4 points per game. She will now be part of the Sky’s core, as the team also made significant offseason moves. They signed seven-time All-Star Skylar Diggins to a two-year contract and drafted NCAA champion Gabriela Jaquez with the fifth overall pick.

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

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