Candace Parker, a two-time WNBA Most Valuable Player, has announced her retirement from the league after 16 seasons. In an Instagram post, she cited the need for another foot surgery as a contributing factor to her decision.
Parker had an illustrious career that began with being selected first overall in the 2008 draft by the Los Angeles Sparks. She won Rookie of the Year and MVP honors that year and went on to win another MVP in 2013. Parker led the Sparks to a WNBA title in 2016 before joining the Chicago Sky in 2021 and winning another championship ring. Last season, she played for the Las Vegas Aces and won her second title before retiring.
Despite leaving the WNBA, Parker expressed her intention to remain involved in the world of basketball and sports. In her Instagram post, she mentioned pursuing opportunities in business, private equity, and ownership of both an NBA and WNBA team. She also mentioned interest in broadcasting with the same intensity and focus she had for basketball.
Throughout her career, Parker was a seven-time WNBA All-Star and averaged 16.0 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 4.0 assists. She was also a two-time Olympic gold medalist as part of the U.S women’s basketball team at the 2008 and 2012 Summer Olympics. While her retirement marks the end of her playing career, Candace Parker’s impact on women’s basketball will continue to be felt in the years to come.
