Candace Parker announced her retirement from the WNBA at the age of 38 after a career that spanned 16 seasons. Despite facing numerous injuries and challenges, Parker never cheated the game and always played with integrity and passion. She made the decision to retire on her own terms, without a grand send-off or farewell tour, as she always wanted to walk off the court privately with her loved ones. Her last game in the WNBA was a 2-point loss to Dallas in 2023, but her legacy goes far beyond that final game.
Parker’s illustrious career included three WNBA championships, multiple stints playing in different countries during the offseason, and representing the United States in two Olympics. She was known for her versatility and groundbreaking achievements, such as being the first women’s player to dunk in a college game and winning MVP and Rookie of the Year honors in the same WNBA season. Parker pushed the boundaries of what was possible for women’s basketball players and was a trailblazer both on and off the court.
In her final season with the Chicago Sky in 2021, Parker returned home to Chicagoland and helped lead the team to a WNBA championship. In a memorable moment, she embraced her daughter Lailaa on the court after the victory, highlighting the importance of family and community in her career. Parker’s impact extended beyond basketball, as she became a broadcaster, investor, soccer team owner, and advocate for women’s sports. Despite facing injuries and setbacks, she remained dedicated and committed to the game throughout her career.
Parker’s retirement was met with an outpouring of support and admiration from fans, fellow players, and athletes across different sports. She was praised for her unique style of play, leadership qualities, and the way she changed perceptions of women’s basketball. By always staying true to herself and never compromising her values, Parker set a new standard for excellence in the WNBA and inspired a generation of players to follow in her footsteps.
As Parker looks forward to retirement, she can take pride in knowing that she has left a lasting impact on the sport she loves. Her passion, dedication, and commitment to improving women’s basketball have paved the way for future generations to continue growing the game. Candace Parker’s legacy will continue to shine bright in the basketball world, and her influence will be felt for years to come. She may have played her last game, but her contributions to the sport will always be remembered and celebrated.
