Three-time WNBA champion and basketball icon Candace Parker has spoken—and she’s not here for the endless comparisons between Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese. In a candid conversation on Jemele Hill’s Spolitics podcast, Parker dismantled the Clark vs. Reese debate, calling the whole rivalry overhyped and misguided.
“It’s Apples and Oranges”
As fans and media continue to pit Clark and Reese against each other, especially after the heated matchups between the Indiana Fever and the Chicago Sky, Parker made one thing crystal clear: they’re not even the same type of player.
“Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese—it’s like, what are we doing?” Parker asked. “They like to compare it to Magic and Bird, but those guys actually played similar positions. This isn’t that. I’m not buying into the comparison.”
Her comments came just after Clark missed a game against the Sky due to a quadriceps injury, sparking ticket resale drops—even with Reese playing. The narrative of rivalry seemed to be more fan-fueled than fact-based, and Parker had no time for it.
Rising Stars, Different Journeys
Despite the noise, both players are carving out their own paths. Clark won Rookie of the Year in her first WNBA season, helping the Indiana Fever break an eight-year playoff drought. This season, she’s averaging 19 points per game and improving her assist and rebound numbers—despite being sidelined for several games.
Reese, on the other hand, set a WNBA rookie record last year with the most double-doubles in a season. While she’s started the 2025 season a bit slower (9.1 points and 12.3 rebounds through seven games), her hustle on the boards remains unmatched.
Parker acknowledges Clark’s growth, saying,
“She’s improved even in her first year in terms of being that floor general. Her connection with Aliyah Boston has really developed. She’s making her team better.”
Still, she points out areas for improvement—especially ball control. Clark had 10 turnovers in a recent game against the New York Liberty, and Parker didn’t hold back:
“When you’re the focal point of a defense, you’re going to turn the ball over. That’s part of the learning curve.”
No Mention of Reese’s Impact?
Interestingly, Parker didn’t weigh in much on Angel Reese’s impact on the Chicago Sky, choosing to focus more on Clark’s leadership and development. Whether that’s a subtle critique or a sign of where Parker sees the future of the league headed is up for debate.
Fans Fueling a False Rivalry?
Let’s be honest—the Clark vs. Reese narrative is great for headlines. But according to Parker, it’s a distraction from the bigger picture. Both athletes are young, evolving, and bring very different skill sets to the court.
“There are things Angel will improve on in her situation. Caitlin’s doing the same in hers,” Parker noted. “It’s not about pitting them against each other.”
Bottom Line
Candace Parker just gave the basketball world a reality check. Clark and Reese are exciting, dynamic players—but comparing them doesn’t do justice to their unique talents. Maybe it’s time fans stop fueling rivalries and start appreciating the rise of a new WNBA era—led by both of them.
FAQ’s
What did Candace Parker say about the Caitlin Clark vs. Angel Reese debate?
Candace Parker dismissed the comparison, calling it “apples and oranges.”
Why did Candace Parker criticize the Clark-Reese rivalry?
She believes the rivalry is overhyped and the players have very different styles.
What podcast did Candace Parker appear on?
Parker shared her thoughts on the Spolitics podcast with Jemele Hill.
Did Caitlin Clark miss a game against the Chicago Sky?
Yes, she missed the June 7 game due to a quadriceps injury.
How is Caitlin Clark performing in her second WNBA season?
Clark is averaging 19 points with improved assists and rebounds.