Candace Parker
Q: Your reaction to Tennessee’s loss — and interaction with Loyola-Chicago’s Sister Jean went viral. What is it like watching your team in the studio atmosphere?
A: It’s a whole lot easier playing in a game than watching it. My heart races way more when I am watching it. I guess that’s a good thing. It’s obviously better when I don’t have a stake in it one way or the other. We’ve been spoiled this NCAA Tournament and we’ve seen some historic things. I wanted Tennessee to win, but I appreciate the way the game was played. And at least they didn’t get blown out like (Brendan Haywood’s) Carolina team.
Q: Does being a current player help you as an analyst?
A: I hope so. It helps me explain things from the player’s perspective. And it also shows me things that I have to improve on as an analyst and a basketball player. I see things that will absolutely drive coaches nuts as a player and as an analyst I can relate to players. Everyone was talking about UMBC and I was feeling for Virginia. They are going to pull up to a gas station in 10 years and someone will be like, “Hey, you busted my bracket.” It’s more than that.
Q: Can Syracuse’s zone be a problem for Duke?
A: Even now everyone underestimates their zone, but if Grayson (Allen) can continue to shoot the ball the way he has and (Marvin) Bagley can make good decisions in the middle, I don’t see Syracuse being a problem for Duke. I see Duke going through this region pretty easily. Q: You don’t think Kansas poses a threat? A: When Duke struggled this season, it was when they struggled from the outside, but with Trevon Duval and Allen, that’s not a problem now. They have three 7-footers and Kansas just has (Udoka) Azubuike. That’s going to be so tough for him to battle that all game. Q: Was Duke the most impressive team? A: Texas Tech impressed me, as well. (Keenan) Evans is something to deal with. He has been there through the transition, winning three games his freshman year. One thing we’ve learned through this tournament, if you have experience at the guard you are already at an advantage. Texas Tech is one of those teams that can grind you out, play fast or slow. With Zaire Smith’s athleticism, Evans’ playmaking, I really like Texas Tech.