Former WNBA star Candace Parker has spoken out about the physicality of the game and Caitlin Clark’s experiences with hard fouls, emphasizing that such challenges are an inherent part of competing in the sport. Parker, who played with the Los Angeles Sparks and was part of the early wave of WNBA stars, noted that generational talents like Clark are expected to face increased physicality as part of the game’s evolving nature. She stated, ‘When you are a generational talent, you’re going to experience the physicality. The scouting report is to stop you, a lot of it is to be physical.’ Parker suggested that the intense scrutiny and physical challenges faced by female athletes today are a reflection of broader societal shifts, with younger generations of players more willing to challenge traditional norms surrounding women’s strength and athleticism.
Speaking on Jemele Hill’s podcast ‘Spolitics,’ Parker also addressed how the physicality of the WNBA is perceived by newer audiences, particularly in light of the league’s growing visibility. She highlighted the tension between societal expectations of women being strong yet not overly so, drawing from her own experiences in college where she hesitated to build strength due to concerns about how it might be perceived. ‘I remember not wanting to go up in weight in college, power cleaning, because I’m like, ‘Oh my shoulders in the dress are looking kind of muscular.’ And now I’m like you know, ‘What I’m a b—-, like who cares? You’re going to see my muscles.’’ Parker underscored the importance of women’s sports in breaking down these outdated perceptions, noting that social media has amplified both the visibility and the scrutiny of female athletes.
Clark’s presence in the WNBA has also sparked a new level of attention, particularly in her rivalry with Angel Reese, who has formed a storied history with her since their national championship clash in 2023. The dynamic between the two has been compared to the iconic Magic Johnson and Larry Bird rivalry in the NBA, which helped elevate the league’s popularity. However, Parker was quick to caution against such a direct comparison. ‘I think it’s comparing apples and oranges,’ she said. ‘Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, it’s like what are we doing? They like doing the Magic and Bird comparison, well they played similar positions. They at least kind of matched up.’ Parker highlighted that while the rivalry is significant, the context and positions of the two players are different, and each must navigate her unique challenges. She also praised Clark’s impact, stating, ‘She makes her team better.’ The physicality of the game and its reception by fans and the media remain central themes as the WNBA continues to grow and evolve.