The Future of Sports is Female: A Kindred Conversation with Candace Parker

In a recent episode of The Arena on TNT, WNBA superstar Candace Parker narrates the story of the 1996 Olympic Games, which marked a turning point for women’s sports history in the U.S.

Often referred to as the Title IX Olympics, these Games were the first time women’s softball and soccer teams were allowed to compete. The achievements of these two teams, and the women’s basketball and gymnastic teams, helped establish the ’96 Games as “The Summer of Women.”

The episode served as the kickoff point for a conversation between Parker and Kindred CEO and Co-Founder Ian Schafer on the future of women in sports. Parker, who also executive produced the episode, is one of the most decorated players in basketball.

Candace Parker has won a WNBA championship, two WNBA Most Valuable Player Awards, two Olympic gold medals, a WNBA Rookie of the Year Award, a WNBA All-Star Game MVP Award, and a WNBA Finals MVP Award, among others. In addition, she co-hosts Inside the NBA on TNT and has appeared on the SEC Network, SportsCenter, and more. Recently, Parker signed to her hometown team, Chicago Sky, after spending 13 seasons and winning a championship with the Los Angeles Sparks.

In this conversation, Parker and Schafer discuss “The Summer of Women” episode, the impact of the 1996 Olympics on women’s sports, and how women are leading the way on social issues. Listen to hear their takes on:

• Social and racial justice activism within the WNBA and the importance of allyship in sports and in the boardroom
• The need for diverse leadership across sports organizations
• The ongoing journey of increasing women’s representation in sports
• Team ownership and building generational wealth

Author: Urey Onuoha, Content Marketing Manager at Kindred