Candace Parker Discusses Her Omission from the 2016 Olympic Team

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Candace Parker, one of the most celebrated players in women’s basketball, has shed light on her absence from the 2016 Olympic team, attributing her exclusion to personal differences with USA Basketball coach Geno Auriemma.

In a candid interview with sports journalist Taylor Rooks in 2021, Parker expressed her belief that her skill on the court was overshadowed by personal biases, suggesting that her lack of connection with Auriemma was a significant factor.

“I went to a camp, I got a triple-double at the camp, was I think first or second in scoring, it wasn’t on the court,” Parker recounted. “I don’t think I personally fit, I don’t think Geno wanted me on the team. So it’s like one of those things like cool, just tell me,” she added, emphasizing her strained relationship with the UConn women’s basketball coach.

Parker’s history with Auriemma dates back to their collegiate days, when she played for the University of Tennessee, UConn’s primary rival. Despite her success, which included two NCAA championships, Parker’s ties to Tennessee may have influenced Auriemma’s decision-making.

The conversation around Parker’s omission from the Olympic roster raises questions about the heavy representation of UConn players on Team USA. Many players from Auriemma’s program have dominated the national scene, leading to speculation about favoritism in selections.

During her discussion with Rooks, Parker noted the distance that has developed, stating, “I don’t have one (a relationship with the national team). I am happy for them when Chelsea (Gray) and especially Napheesa Collier are the two that I am really close with.”

Despite her disappointment, Parker maintains a pragmatic view towards her past with Team USA. “I mean he doesn’t like me, I don’t like him, we don’t like each other. But I think I am of this mindset that I don’t have to like you to play with you, I don’t have to like you to work with you, and that’s fine. It’s cool; they made their decision,” she said, addressing her complex feelings about Auriemma and the national team.

Parker won gold medals with Team USA in 2008 and 2012, but her omission from the 2016 team remains a sore subject. Since then, she has not returned to national team play, highlighting a pivotal moment in her storied career.