The Latest Breaking News from Candace Parker

The St. Louis native cracked the top five in 2023 MVP voting last season.

"I don't think you could have come back with the same core," said Parker.

The Aces will look to complete the sweep at 2 p.m. Sunday.

Game 1 in the best-of-three first-round series between the No. 1 Aces and No. 8 Sky tips off at 9 p.m. Wednesday. This Sky team will be lucky to force a Game 3.

Former coach/GM James Wade’s hurried attempt to stop the bleeding in the wake of the departures of Candace Parker, Courtney Vandersloot and Allie Quigley not only failed to prevent a rebuild, but it also poses a realistic hindrance to the Sky’s future success.

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Copper scored 37 points in the Sky’s 107-95 loss at Wintrust Arena.

“Just like all the fans of the WNBA, you want to see the ‘W’ continue to keep improving,” Wade said. “The Sky, we have to. We know that.”

The injury to Candace Parker is a hit to the starting lineup for the league-leading Aces.

“You’re going to go through little phases where you’re not playing your best basketball, but you can’t attach your self-worth to it,” Mabrey said.

“Every person wants to play in their hometown, whether it’s playing there for college, whatever it is.” said Loyd, who played high school ball at Niles West. “There’s always a different feel. . . . At the same time, I’ve only known the Seattle Storm my whole [WNBA career].’’