Candace Parker Names The WNBA Players Far Ahead of Caitlin Clark

Caitlin Clark remains the WNBA’s biggest draw, leading all players in fan votes to become an All-Star captain despite missing time with injuries. But not everyone sees her as the league’s best just yet.

On Complex Sports this week, Candace Parker shared her tier rankings for active WNBA stars. She gave Clark a solid grade just not the top spot.

When asked who belongs in the WNBA’s “S-tier,” Parker didn’t hesitate. Her elite three?

  • A’ja Wilson: “Reigning MVP… If there was something higher than S, she’d be up there,” Parker said.
  • Napheesa Collier: “Top tier with A’ja. Her ability to dominate both sides of the floor makes you guess wrong every time.”
  • Breanna Stewart: “The versatility. She’s a reigning champ and now has three rings.”

Parker’s list celebrates consistent excellence, players who dominate defensively and have a championship résumé to back it up.

Read More: WNBA: Ranking the 5 Untouchable Records That May Never Be Broken

Caitlin Clark Gets an “A” for Now

Parker put Caitlin Clark in the A-tier, alongside Kelsey Plum and Sabrina Ionescu.

“She’s going to get there,” Parker said. “But to be at that S-level, you’ve got to do it for a few more years.”

Clark’s numbers in 2025 are slightly down from her rookie season. She’s averaging 16.7 points per game on 37.4% shooting, down from 19.2 points and 41.7% last year. However, her playmaking has improved, her 9.0 assists per game lead the league.

Even with the “A” grade, Clark’s star continues to rise. She’ll captain one side of the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game, and her Indiana Fever team is heating up with a chance to push their win streak to four against the New York Liberty.

Parker’s assessment wasn’t a snub, it was a reminder. Greatness takes time, and Clark is already on the path. The spotlight hasn’t faded, but she’s still chasing that top tier level.

Read More: Candace Parker’s No-Nonsense Advice to Angel Reese: Master Your Spot

Related Articles
Jan 3, 2021; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (2) celebrates with teammates after a touchdown run against the Washington Football Team during the second quarter at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
15 NFL Teams Everyone Secretly Loved to See Fail
For one reason or another, when these squads crash and burn, football fans everywhere can’t help but...
Read More
Carson Wentz
14 NFL Receivers With Hands Like Bricks
These NFL receivers were known for drops that made fans groan. Discover 14 wideouts with hands like bricks...
Read More
Dec 20, 2009; Dallas, TX, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Shaquille O'Neal (33) shoots a free throw against the Dallas Mavericks at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Photo By Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
13 NBA Big Men Who Couldn’t Hit Free Throws
Whether it was nerves, mechanics, or just plain bad luck, these NBA big men turned every trip to the...
Read More
Dec 20, 2009; Denver, CO, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback JaMarcus Russell (2) walks off the field after the Raiders' 20-19 victory over the Denver Broncos at Invesco Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/Image of Sport-Imagn Images
12 Quarterbacks Who Had No Pocket Awareness
These 12 quarterbacks had all the tools—except pocket awareness. See who froze under pressure and made...
Read More
Unknown Date; St. Louis, MO, USA; FILE PHOTO; Cleveland Browns running back (32) Jim Brown in action against the St. Louis Cardinals. Mandatory Credit: Tony Tomsic-USA TODAY NETWORK
16 Old-School Running Backs Who Wouldn’t Last a Season Today
From bruising backs to one-dimensional runners, these 16 names would have a tough time lasting even one...
Read More
JaMarcus Russell
The 11 Most Overrated No. 1 Picks in NFL History
From can't-miss prospects who missed to guys who never lived up to the expectations, the history of No....
Read More

As an Amazon Associate, The Quick Report earns from qualifying purchases.

Part of the Castaway Studios media network.