Candace Parker is undoubtedly one of the best players to ever suit up in the WNBA. Now, she’s set to receive a massive honor befitting her stature in the league she helped popularize.
On Thursday, the Los Angeles Sparks announced that they will retire Parker’s jersey No. 3 on June 29. The L.A. franchise drafted Parker first overall in the 2008 draft, and the star forward played for the team from 2008 to 2021, winning one championship along the way.
It’s interesting to note that the Sparks will play the Chicago Sky on the same day they retire Parker’s jersey. As fans may know, Parker also played for two seasons with the Windy City team and won the title in 2021.
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After revealing their plan to honor Parker, the Sparks posted a tribute video for her, including a clip from when they drafted her along with several highlights during her 13 seasons with the franchise.
“There will never be another 3,” the Sparks wrote in the caption of the post.
There’s no denying that Candace Parker deserves the recognition. After all, right after she arrived in the WNBA, she immediately made her impact felt.
To this day, no other WNBA player has won MVP and Rookie of the Year in the same season. She’s also won another MVP honor in 2013, as well as Defensive Player of the Year in 2020.
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Parker is a three-time WNBA champion as well, winning another one with the Las Vegas Aces in her final year in the pros.
TNT broadcaster Candace Parker during the Golden State Warriors game against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center.Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Sure enough, June 29 will be a special day not only for the Sparks and the city of L.A. but also for the whole WNBA.
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