Are you a Caitlin Clark fan? Well, who isn’t? But when we talk about WNBA legends, no one has been more impactful than Candace Parker. Her influence on and off the court has not only redefined the game but also inspired generations. With 3 WNBA championships and 2 MVPs, Parker’s name is synonymous with excellence, and she’s always a central figure in any conversation about the greatest players in WNBA history.

Candace, who is now serving as the president of the Adidas Women’s Basketball division, has been relentlessly working on increasing the growth and recognition of women’s basketball athletes since her retirement. The Chicago native continues to wear many hats, mom, friend, mentor, executive, broadcaster, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. This proves that her legacy extends far beyond the court.

Parker, who retired from basketball last year, recently sat down with host Kahleah Copper on the podcast ‘Trophy Room’ to share insights about her post-retirement journey. From her groundbreaking work as a leader in women’s basketball to reflections on the sport’s rapid growth.

There are some things, however, that Parker wishes had existed during her playing days. In the podcast, she candidly vents her frustration, reflecting on how much she missed out on. She says,“Girl, they okayed chartered flights the day I retired, I said this is literally bullsh-t!.” ” Literally I press send on the little retirement post, shed a little tear, and then Cathy Englebert want to come out and be like chartered flights for the whole league.” For context,  the league decided to invest $50 million dollars ($25 million each for two seasons) for the next two years to provide full-time charter flight service for its teams during the season right after Parker retired.

While Candace playfully vents her frustration about missing out on the luxury of chartered flights during her career, she’s quick to show her sportsmanship. Acknowledging the importance of this progress since the arrival of Caitlin Clark, she expressed genuine happiness for current WNBA players finally getting this opportunity. She says, “I am happy for y’all , it shows that things like player experience means so much, because when you are taken care of all you have to think about is this and it’s just easier, you play better because that’s all you have to think of.” 

The Caitlin Clark effect

Caitlin Clark has fundamentally changed women’s basketball by setting records and drawing unparalleled attention to the sport. With over 3,700 career points, the most in NCAA history (male or female), and breaking Steph Curry’s record for the most three-pointers in a season, she has established herself as one of the greatest basketball players in the world.

Her electrifying style of play has captured the world’s attention. The demand to witness her magic on the court has reached unprecedented heights, driving ticket prices for the women’s basketball championship to soar past those of the men’s. This surge in popularity coined the “Caitlin Clark Effect,” has not only boosted women’s basketball visibility but also showcased its potential as a major entertainment product.

The NCAA’s updated $65 million TV deal with ESPN for women’s basketball and the use of the March Madness branding for the women’s tournament reflect the growing respect for the sport. ”The  Caitlin Clark Effect” has highlighted the commercial viability of women athletes.

Candace Parker has rightfully highlighted her impact on women’s basketball. Her legacy as a player continues to open doors for future generations, while Caitlin Clark’s rapid ascent and influence mark a new chapter of visibility and respect for the sport. Together, they’ve proven the endless potential of women’s basketball, inspiring both today’s players and those to come.