Move over, Chris Paul! There’s a fierce debate raging in the sports world over the ‘CP3’ label, and it’s coming from none other than WNBA legend Candace Parker. For years, NBA fans have associated the moniker with the crafty point guard Chris Paul. But if you ask Candace Parker, she’s got receipts — and she’s ready to prove why she’s the real CP3!
The whole saga unfolded during a light-hearted conversation between Parker and LSU’s rising star Flau’jae Johnson. When asked the million-dollar question, “Who’s the real CP3?” Parker didn’t miss a beat. With a cheeky grin, she confidently replied, “Come on now. First of all, I was in [Los Angeles] first. I guess that’s not a question for me; that’s a question for everybody else.”
With a track record that boasts three WNBA championships (which is three more than Chris Paul, by the way) and an illustrious 16-year career, Parker’s got a pretty solid argument. And she’s not just laying claim to the title; she’s taking ownership of it. “When you think of CP3… Yeah, but I own it,” she quipped with a smile, adding a playful jab at her NBA counterpart.
Talk about a mic drop moment! Let’s break down why Candace Parker deserves the nickname.
What’s in a Name? CP3 Showdown
Chris Paul may have spent two decades dazzling NBA crowds with his court vision and crossover dribbles, but Candace Parker’s career is nothing short of legendary. Just look at the résumé: Seven-time WNBA All-Star, two-time MVP, and Defensive Player of the Year in 2020. Plus, she did it all while breaking barriers as one of the faces of women’s basketball. And oh, did we mention she’s got three championship rings?
Meanwhile, poor Chris Paul is still hunting for his elusive first NBA title after 20 long years. Ouch.
If there was a championship debate — Candace would be flexing her rings like Thanos, and Chris would be left scrambling for Infinity Stones. Who’s got the real power now?
Parker’s Got History on Her Side
Sure, CP3 is Chris Paul’s initials plus his jersey number, but here’s where Candace’s argument gets interesting. Parker’s roots in Los Angeles date back to 2008 when she started her WNBA journey with the LA Sparks. Meanwhile, Chris Paul didn’t set foot in the City of Angels until 2011, when he joined the Clippers. That’s three years of prime LA real estate that Parker staked her claim on.
For the record, Parker’s arrival in the land of stars and Hollywood glam also resulted in a Rookie of the Year and MVP award — in the same season! No pressure, Chris.
Retirement vs. One Last Dance
Candace Parker may have hung up her sneakers before the 2024 season, but she left an indelible mark on the WNBA. She took to Instagram to bid farewell, posting a heartfelt message that tugged at the heartstrings of fans and fellow players alike. With a career spanning over a decade and a half, Parker finished with 6,574 points — placing her in the top 10 of the WNBA’s all-time scoring leaderboard.
And what about Chris Paul? Well, CP3 is still at it, now donning a San Antonio Spurs jersey and trying to mentor rookie sensation Victor Wembanyama. But let’s face it, time’s ticking. As Parker chills on her throne of accolades, CP3 (the other one) is still chasing that elusive NBA championship. It’s like watching a never-ending episode of Tom and Jerry.
Who Really Owns the CP3 Crown?
The debate will probably rage on, but one thing’s clear: Candace Parker’s claim isn’t just about a nickname. It’s about respect, legacy, and a friendly yet feisty rivalry that only adds to her charm. Chris Paul might have more assists, but Candace has certainly served up more comebacks.
The next time someone asks, “Who’s the real CP3?” — just show them Parker’s championship rings. End of discussion.