10 Questions With...Candace Parker

There's no doubt that Candace Parker is one of the greatest women's hoops players ever. The Los Angeles Sparks forward is the only player to win the WNBA MVP and Rookie of the Year in the same season (2008), and averaged 20.6 points and 10.1 rebounds in 2010 before injuring her left shoulder. This spring, Parker is partnering with Playtex Sports to promote the Be Unstoppable campaign, which seeks to inspire girls to be self-confident and physically active. Parker has her act together on and off the court, but can she handle our 10 questions? She Skype'd in to speak with SIKIDS.com from Russia, where she is playing pro basketball during the WNBA's off-season.

What time is your alarm set for?

My alarm is actually asleep right now. Whenever my toddler daughter Lailaa wakes up, that's my alarm. She comes in and says "Hi, Mommy."

Chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry ice cream?

Vanilla

What was your childhood nickname?

Can Do Anything and Get Away With It. My brothers used to call me that because I'm the youngest and they thought I was spoiled.

If you weren't an athlete, which career would you choose?

I would be a teacher. I'd probably teach third grade - that's my favorite age group.

Why do you wear the jersey number that you do?

I wear number three because I was the biggest Allen Iverson fan growing up, and [my high school number] 32 at [the University of] Tennessee was taken. I needed to take another number, so I picked three.

What is your favorite city to compete in?

My favorite city to compete in is Los Angeles, but away city would probably be New York. It's so fun to play in Madison Square Garden - that's my favorite arena to play in.

What do you do on your days off?

I love to go outside and play with my daughter, I love to bowl, I love to play cards, and I watch a lot of Slingbox while I'm over here in Russia.

Who is the greatest athlete of all time?

Michael Jordan. He did everything. He was as good a defensive player as he was an offensive player. He was a great leader and worked harder than anyone else.

Who is your best friend in sports?

My big sister in sports is Tamika Catchings. She also went to Tennessee and our families knew each other growing up. She was an idol of mine and she was one of the big reasons I went Tennessee. She's definitely a great friend.

What is the last item that you purchased?

I love to cook, so I purchased a bowl at Ikea. They have Ikea here in Russia!