Candace Parker Retires After Legendary Basketball Career

After a legendary basketball career spanning 16 seasons in the WNBA, Candace Parker has announced her retirement. The news came via social media on Sunday, where Parker reflected on her decision to step away from the game she loves.

“I promised I’d never cheat the game & that I’d leave it in a better place than I came into it,” Parker wrote on Instagram. “The competitor in me always wants 1 more, but it’s time. My HEART & body knew, but I needed to give my mind time to accept it.”

Parker, who spent 13 seasons with the Los Angeles Sparks after being drafted No. 1 overall in 2008 out of Tennessee, leaves behind an impressive legacy. She won three WNBA championships, including a Finals MVP honor in 2016. Parker’s list of accolades is extensive, with two MVP awards, Rookie of the Year, Defensive Player of the Year, and seven All-Star selections to her name.

Before her WNBA career, Parker had a standout college career with the Lady Vols, winning two national championships and earning multiple individual honors. She also found success overseas, winning five Russian League championships with BC UMMC Ekaterinburg during WNBA offseasons.

Off the court, Parker has already set herself up for a successful post-playing career. She has been a studio analyst and game commentator for TNT since the 2018-19 NBA season, and has worked on various projects with her production company, Baby Hair Productions. Additionally, Parker and her daughter are part of the ownership group for the NWSL’s Los Angeles franchise, Angel City FC.

As Parker closes this chapter of her life, she leaves behind a lasting impact on the game of basketball and a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.