In a heartfelt ceremony at Crypto.com Arena, WNBA legend Candace Parker watched her iconic No. 3 jersey rise to the rafters, cementing her legacy with the Los Angeles Sparks—the team that drafted her No. 1 overall in 2008.
The jersey retirement took place at halftime during the Sparks’ game against the Chicago Sky, the very team Parker led to a championship in 2021. According to ESPN, Parker becomes just the third player in franchise history to receive the honor, joining Lisa Leslie (No. 9) and Penny Toler (No. 11).
“When I got drafted out here, it’s become home,” Parker told fans during the ceremony. “I’ve lived here longer than anywhere else… My 13 years here were super special.”
A Career of Championships and Firsts
Candace Parker’s career is among the most storied in WNBA history:
- 2008: Drafted No. 1 overall by the Sparks
- 2016: Led L.A. to a WNBA Championship and earned Finals MVP
- 2021: Returned to hometown Chicago and delivered a title to the Sky
- 2023: Capped her final season with a third championship, this time with the Las Vegas Aces
Known for her versatility, dominance on both ends of the court, and leadership, Parker has been a trailblazer throughout her 16-year professional career. Her retirement from playing hasn’t slowed the recognition.
On August 25, the Chicago Sky will also retire her No. 3 jersey during a special tribute at Wintrust Arena, placing it next to the team’s 2021 championship banner.
From Rookie Phenom to Franchise Icon
Drafted straight out of Tennessee, where she played under legendary coach Pat Summitt, Parker made an immediate impact as one of the league’s first true do-it-all forwards. She became the first player in WNBA history to win both Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same season.
The Sparks’ organization celebrated not just her on-court greatness, but the heart and legacy she brought to Los Angeles.
“It was ups, downs, wins, losses, heartaches, and rewards,” Parker reflected. “But it’s super special to share that with my teammates and coaches with an organization that bet on me with the first pick in the 2008 WNBA draft.”
A Legacy Still Building
While she’s hung up her sneakers, Parker’s influence continues through broadcasting, philanthropy, and mentorship. Her dual jersey retirements in Los Angeles and Chicago solidify her status as one of the most impactful athletes in women’s sports.
With her number now immortalized in two cities—and possibly more accolades on the horizon—Candace Parker’s legacy is far from finished.
