Homecoming queen: Candace Parker dazzles in Chicago Sky debut

Candace Parker shined in her first game with her hometown team, lifting the Chicago Sky to a 70-56 victory over the Washington Mystics.

Candace Parker, a Naperville native spent her entire 13-year career with the Los Angeles Sparks before signing with the Chicago Sky this offseason as a marquee free agent.

Parker had an immediate impact on Saturday, registering 16 points, eight rebounds, four assists and three blocks in the Sky’s season opener. She also finished with a game-high plus-minus of +19.

Candace Parker ready to lift ceiling for Sky

One of the WNBA’s premier two-way threats, the two-time MVP and reigning Defensive Player of the Year is sure to lift the ceiling for a Chicago team in pursuit of their first WNBA title.

Parker slotted in beautifully next to Sky starters Courtney Vandersloot, Diamond DeShields, Stefanie Dolson and Kahleah Copper, showing off a rapidly developing chemistry.

Parker’s addition to an already talented squad has some analysts suggesting this season could be championship or bust for the Sky. Her veteran presence raises the level of play and the expectations every time she steps foot on the hardwood.

With an assist machine in Vandersloot setting her up, Parker should have no trouble finding good looks this season, especially on the pick and roll. Her defensive prowess will inevitably lead to some fast-break opportunities that will keep opponents back peddling.

The 35-year-old, five-time All-Star impresses on and off the court. Parker’s resume includes WNBA champion, WNBA Finals MVP, six All-WNBA First Team selections, a popular podcast and being part of must-see TV on NBA on TNT.

Few people can say they’re simultaneously one of the best basketball players and best TV analysts in the game. CP3 does it all with apparent ease. Parker was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft out of Tennessee, and the first player in league history to win Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same season. Now, she’s trying to carry on her legacy in her home state where she starred at Naperville Central.