Candace Parker has reached another milestone in her career as a WNBA basketball star. On June 29, the LA Sparks retired her No. 3 Jersey, during a game with the Chicago Sky, signifying her outstanding contributions to her team. The LA Sparks did lose the game with a score of 95-82 with Angel Reese scoring a blazing 24 points but the close loss did not stop the team from highlighting Parker, who officially retired in April 2024.
Her wife, daughter and son attended the game and ceremony. Parker led the Sparks as their assist leader in their most recent WNBA Championship. Sparks legend, Lisa Leslie, opened the ceremony and introduced Parker.
“In 2007 I got pregnant. The sparks went from first to last place and in last place we were able to get the number pick and the best player in college basketball… and that’s Candace Parker.” She continued, “She made her teammates better, she was an amazing leader, she led in this community, she’s an amazing mother, and I can’t tell you how proud I am to be her vet and for Candace Parker to be my rookie. She has done an outstanding job of helping the LA Sparks raise another banner in this house. And I can tell you that number three is gonna hang in these rafters where they should because nobody else can do what Candace Parker has done for the LA Sparks.”
Parker gave a four minute speech in which she thanked her family, friends, teammates, her opponents, coaches, doctors, physical therapists, Adidas, management, Michael Cooper and Magic Johnson, who helped train her. She also showed love to her hometown, Chicago, and other Basketball legends such as Kareem and Kobe.
“Fast forward almost 20 years and we’re here. I think the thing that I’ve learned through all the ups and downs, wins and losses, injuries, difficulties, highlights, records, it’s about enjoying the process, enjoying the journey. I appreciate all of you all for making it special.” She continued, “I appreciate the people that fuel my purpose and my passion. I’m extremely humbled to have number 3 up there amongst the greats and I don’t take that for granted.”
Parker is a two time MVP, a 2008 rookie of the year, and the latest retired jersey to be added to the list of WNBA and NBA basketball legends such as Kobe Bryant, Lisa Leslie, Penny Toler and Michael Jordan.