Two Tennessee Lady Volunteers in the Running for Greatest WNBA Player of All Time
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) is celebrating its 25th season with a special fan vote to determine the greatest player in league history. Among the 25 nominees, two former Tennessee Lady Volunteers stand out, representing a legacy of excellence that traces back to the late, great coach Pat Summitt. These two iconic players, Tamika Catchings and Candace Parker, have left indelible marks on both the WNBA and the sport of basketball as a whole.
A Legacy of Excellence
The University of Tennessee’s women’s basketball program, led for decades by the legendary Pat Summitt, has consistently produced some of the top talents in women’s basketball. Many of these athletes have gone on to achieve remarkable careers in the WNBA, none more so than Catchings and Parker. Their influence on the game transcends statistics and accolades, as they have inspired generations of young athletes with their skill, leadership, and resilience.
Tamika Catchings: A Model of Consistency and Determination
Tamika Catchings, a 10-time WNBA All-Star and five-time WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, is widely regarded as one of the most complete players in league history. Selected by the Indiana Fever with the third overall pick in the 2001 WNBA Draft, Catchings quickly established herself as a dominant force in the league. Over the course of her illustrious career, she became the Fever’s all-time leader in points, rebounds, assists, and steals.
Career Highlights:
- WNBA Champion (2012): Catchings led the Indiana Fever to their first-ever WNBA Championship, earning Finals MVP honors in the process.
- WNBA MVP (2011): Her all-around dominance was recognized when she was named the league’s Most Valuable Player.
- Four Olympic Gold Medals: Representing Team USA, Catchings won gold at the 2004, 2008, 2012, and 2016 Olympics.
- Hall of Fame Inductee: In 2020, she was enshrined in the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, further cementing her legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game.
Candace Parker: A Versatile Superstar
Candace Parker, another Tennessee legend, has consistently been at the forefront of the WNBA since she was selected first overall by the Los Angeles Sparks in the 2008 WNBA Draft. Parker, known for her versatility, has played multiple positions effectively, showcasing her ability to score, rebound, pass, and defend at an elite level.
Career Highlights:
- Two-Time WNBA Champion (2016, 2021): Parker led the Los Angeles Sparks to a championship in 2016 and later guided the Chicago Sky to their first title in 2021.
- Two-Time WNBA MVP (2008, 2013): She made an immediate impact by winning MVP as a rookie in 2008, a feat only achieved once before in league history.
- WNBA Rookie of the Year (2008): Parker’s incredible debut season saw her win both Rookie of the Year and MVP, highlighting her generational talent.
- Finals MVP (2016): In leading the Sparks to a championship, Parker was named Finals MVP, proving her ability to perform in the biggest moments.
- Olympic Gold Medalist (2008, 2012): She was a key part of Team USA’s success on the international stage.
The Fan Vote: Deciding the Greatest of All Time
The WNBA’s 25th-anniversary celebration includes a fan vote that will help determine the league’s greatest player. With 25 nominees, including other all-time greats like Diana Taurasi, Lisa Leslie, and Sue Bird, the competition is fierce. However, the legacies of Catchings and Parker make them strong contenders for the title.
Why Catchings Deserves the Crown
Catchings’ all-around excellence, leadership, and defensive prowess set her apart. Few players in WNBA history have had as significant an impact on both ends of the floor. Her ability to shut down opponents while also being a prolific scorer makes her one of the most complete players the league has ever seen. Her consistency, dedication, and influence on the game make her a prime candidate for the greatest player honor.
Why Parker Deserves the Crown
Parker’s versatility and ability to dominate in multiple facets of the game make her a strong contender for the title. She has redefined what it means to be a forward in the WNBA, demonstrating exceptional ball-handling, passing, and scoring ability while also excelling as a rebounder and shot-blocker. Her ability to win championships with different teams highlights her adaptability and leadership, further solidifying her case as the greatest of all time.
The Impact of Tennessee Lady Vols on the WNBA
The presence of Catchings and Parker among the 25 nominees is a testament to the lasting impact of the Tennessee Lady Vols program on professional women’s basketball. Pat Summitt’s influence continues to be felt through her former players, who carry on her legacy of excellence, hard work, and determination.
The success of Catchings and Parker has also helped pave the way for future generations of Lady Vols to enter the WNBA and succeed at the highest level. Players like Diamond DeShields, Mercedes Russell, and Rennia Davis continue the tradition of Tennessee stars making their mark in the league.
How Fans Can Participate
Fans have the opportunity to vote for the greatest player in WNBA history through the league’s official website and social media channels. The voting process is a way to celebrate the incredible achievements of these athletes and recognize their contributions to the sport.
For Lady Vols fans, the opportunity to see either Catchings or Parker take the crown would be a moment of pride, further solidifying Tennessee’s place as one of the most influential programs in women’s basketball history.