MINNEAPOLIS – There’s no secret the starpower in WNBA Finals 2015 presented by Boost Mobile is centered around Minnesota’s Maya Moore, a star in the middle of her prime, and Indiana’s Tamika Catchings, a living legend who still has plenty in the tank.

Even though these two fierce competitors will spar with each other on the court, the respect they have for each other — despite being at different stages in their careers — is abundantly clear. During Monday’s media availability, Moore had much praise for Catchings.

On looking up to Tamika: I’ve been able to spend time with her and get to know her. I’ve respected her since I was in high school watching her at Tennessee and in the pros. She, I can say without a doubt, is who she is in front of the camera, behind the scenes. She is a genuine person that lives life with a lot of passion and a lot of energy and I really respect that. She doesnt turn it on and off, she is who she is and I really appreciate that about here and I try to be the same way as far as being genuine.

On Tamika’s presence on and off the court: Her heart for her team and her community is real, and it’s really cool to see that and I hope more players can imitate those qualities about her and obviously she’s a ridiculous competitor. She plays so hard on both sides for so many years. It wasn’t just a year here or there, she’s been one of those tenacious defenders and offensive threats her whole career.

On playing with Tamika: When she’s on my team during the Olympics and World Championships and things it’s really fun to cheer her on and watch her change the momentum of games. When you’re guarding her, you have to be on high alert at all times because that’s just who she is, she makes big plays. She’s a big part of her team and she gives her teammates confidence as well.