After 16 seasons in the WNBA, three-time champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist Candace Parker has announced her retirement at the age of 38. The decision was made after Parker realized it was time to hang up her sneakers despite her competitive drive wanting to continue. Parker, who had 10 surgeries throughout her career, wanted to ensure she didn’t cheat the game or herself by playing when she wasn’t at her best. She wanted to leave the game in a better place than when she entered it and decided to retire ahead of the Aces’ attempt to win a third consecutive title.
Parker spent the majority of her career with the Los Angeles Sparks, where she established her dominance early on as a No. 1 pick by winning Rookie of the Year and league MVP in the same season. She then went on to earn her second MVP award in 2013 and won her first WNBA title in 2016 with the Sparks. Parker later won championships with the Chicago Sky in 2021 and the Las Vegas Aces in 2022, becoming the only player in league history to win a championship with three different teams. Her impact on the game and the memories she created will be remembered for generations to come.
During her college career, Parker played for legendary coach Pat Summitt at Tennessee, winning two national championships in 2007 and 2008. She also won Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2012 before being left off the 2016 team. Parker’s contributions to women’s basketball both on and off the court have inspired countless young players to follow their dreams. Players like Breanna Stewart and coaches like Sandy Brondello have expressed admiration for Parker’s career and the legacy she leaves behind in the sport.
In addition to her playing career, Parker also began working in broadcasting and has served as an analyst for the NCAA Tournament with CBS Sports and NBA TV. Despite facing challenges with foot injuries and surgeries, Parker remained dedicated to her passion for the game and continued to inspire others with her work on and off the court. As she transitions into retirement, Parker plans to focus on her priorities as a wife and mother and enjoy spending time with her family. Her mission in life, as she quoted from Pat Summitt, is to “chase people and passions and you will never fail.”
Parker’s impact on women’s basketball, both as a player and as a mentor, will continue to be felt throughout the league. Her contributions to the game have paved the way for future generations of players and her legacy will live on through the memories she created and the inspiration she provided. As she closes this chapter of her life, Parker leaves behind a legacy of excellence and dedication that will be remembered by fans, players, and coaches alike for years to come. Her retirement marks the end of an era in the WNBA, but her influence will continue to shape the future of the game.
