Candace Parker, a three-time WNBA champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, announced her retirement after 16 seasons in the league. At 38 years old, Parker made the decision to step away from the game, citing the need to listen to her body and heart. Despite her desire to continue playing, she recognized that it was time to move on and leave the game in a better place than when she entered it. Parker expressed gratitude for the journey and the opportunity to walk off the court with her daughter by her side, ending her career as she started it – with family.
Parker spent the majority of her career with the Los Angeles Sparks, where she made an immediate impact as the No. 1 pick, winning Rookie of the Year and MVP in her debut season. She continued to excel throughout her time with the Sparks, earning a second MVP award in 2013 and capturing her first WNBA title in 2016. Parker later went on to win championships with the Chicago Sky in 2021 and the Las Vegas Aces in 2022, becoming the only player in league history to win titles with three different teams. Her contributions to the game and her impact on a generation of women’s basketball fans are not only reflected in her accolades but also in her work as a teammate, mentor, and ambassador for the sport.
In addition to her WNBA accomplishments, Parker also had a successful collegiate career at the University of Tennessee, where she played for legendary coach Pat Summitt and won two national championships in 2007 and 2008. She represented Team USA at the Olympics, winning gold medals in 2008 and 2012. Throughout her career, Parker balanced her role as an elite athlete with her responsibilities as a wife, mother, and businesswoman. She began her broadcasting career while still playing, working as an analyst for CBS Sports and NBA TV, showcasing her versatility and insight into the game.
Despite facing challenges with injuries towards the latter part of her career, including foot surgery in 2023, Parker remained committed to giving her all on the court. However, she acknowledged that her body was no longer cooperating as she had hoped, leading to her decision to retire. Looking ahead, Parker emphasized that her priorities remain with her family, and she plans to fully enjoy spending time with her loved ones. As she transitions into retirement, Parker leaves behind a lasting legacy as one of the most accomplished and respected players in women’s basketball, inspiring countless young athletes to chase their dreams and achieve success on and off the court. Her impact will be felt for years to come, as she continues to be a role model for future generations of athletes.
