'I’m Not Falling Into That': Caitlin Clark, Angel Reese Rivalry Compared To Magic Johnson, Larry Bird Puzzles Candace Parker

Candace Parker voiced her disbelief in one of the WNBAs popular narratives: the Caitlin Clark-Angel Reese rivalry being compared to the legendary NBA duel between Magic Johnson and Larry Bird.

Clark and Reese solidified their reputation as one of the high-profile rising stars in the WNBA, with their perceived rivalry that had originated since their college showdowns becoming a central point for media and fan discussion.

However, Parker doesnt buy into the comparisons, insisting that they are forced and fail to reflect the players unique playstyles.

On Saturdays Spolitics podcast with Jemele Hill, Parker emphasized that Caitlin Clarks dynamic point guard role and Reeses dominant forward roles are conflicting for comparison, unlike Johnson and Birds.

I just think that its like comparing apples and oranges.

Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, its like, what are we doing? Parker said.

[26:30 mark] They like doing the Magic [Johnson] and the [Larry] Bird comparison.

Well, they played similar positions...

They at least kind of matched up.

Like, what are we doing? Im not falling into that, Im not into the comparison.

I think that there are a number of things that Angel can improve on, will improve on in the situation shes in.

And I think Caitlin Clark has done that even in her first year, in terms of being able to be that floor general.

Despite Parkers criticisms, the Caitlin ClarkAngel Reese rivalry shows no signs of fading as it drives viewership and fan engagement across the WNBA.

Despite the two sophomores making it clear that they dont lean on the rivalry, their on-court interactions, with the season opener on May 17 as a sample, have helped fuel the narrative.

However, fans have missed another Clark-Reese rematch after the former did not play in the Sky-Fever Saturday matchup due to her quad injury.

Candace Parker candidly shares feelings on Caitlin Clark narrative Speaking to Stephen A.

Smith on ESPN last week, Candace Parker has made it clear that she holds no bitterness toward Caitlin Clark or the increased attention the Indiana Fever star has brought to the WNBA.

You know, its so crazy to me because Im asked so many times if Im resentful in any type of way for where the WNBA is right now, Parker told Smith.

My job was to leave the game better than I came into it.

You think Cheryl Miller is resentful for me that I had a league to play in? Parker stressed that while the Caitlin Clark narrative helps drive attention to the league, the focus should be on building long-term success in womens basketball, which is the goal she continues to take today.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission..

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