Candace Parker has always been more than just a basketball player. The two-time WNBA champion and one of the greatest forwards in league history has now stepped into a new chapter following her retirement. While she may no longer be dazzling fans with her on-court brilliance, Parker continues to make headlines with her leadership, influence, and dedication to shaping the future of women’s basketball.
Key Points Summary – For Fast Readers
✨ Jersey retirement by both Los Angeles Sparks and Chicago Sky
✨ Recently retired after 16 remarkable WNBA seasons
✨ Named President of Women’s Basketball at Adidas
✨ Joined Amazon’s NBA and WNBA coverage team
✨ Actively pursuing ownership of a WNBA franchise
A Legendary Career Comes Full Circle
Candace Parker’s playing career ended in April 2024 after 16 years filled with championships, MVP awards, and countless highlights. Her ability to dominate as both a scorer and playmaker made her one of the most versatile players in basketball history.
In recognition of her impact, the Los Angeles Sparks retired her No. 3 jersey in a heartfelt ceremony earlier this summer. Soon after, the Chicago Sky announced they would do the same, making her only the second player in WNBA history to receive jersey retirements from multiple franchises. These honors symbolize the respect and admiration Parker earned across the league.
Expanding Her Impact Beyond Basketball
Retirement did not mark an end to Parker’s influence—it only amplified it. Just days after announcing her decision, she accepted the role of President of Women’s Basketball at Adidas. This position allows her to shape product development and champion initiatives designed to empower female athletes.
In addition, Parker has strengthened her presence in broadcasting. After several successful seasons as a respected analyst on TNT, she recently joined Amazon’s new NBA and WNBA coverage team. This move not only broadens her platform but also highlights her growing importance in the media landscape.
The Pursuit of Ownership
Perhaps the most exciting development in Candace Parker’s post-playing career is her focus on ownership. She has publicly expressed her determination to secure a stake in a WNBA team, signaling a shift from player to decision-maker. This ambition underscores her passion for advancing the league and ensuring future generations of athletes have greater opportunities.
If achieved, Parker’s move into ownership would mark a groundbreaking moment, placing her among the few former athletes to transition into leadership at the ownership level. It would also strengthen her lasting legacy as someone who not only changed the game on the floor but also shaped it from the boardroom.
Building a Lasting Legacy
Parker’s story is not solely about basketball achievements. She represents resilience, leadership, and innovation. Her career earnings in the WNBA were modest compared to male counterparts, but she built her net worth through broadcasting, brand partnerships, and executive roles. By doing so, she set an example for other athletes to maximize their influence beyond the game.
Today, her legacy includes:
- Two WNBA Championships – With the Sparks and the Sky
- Multiple MVP Awards – Cementing her place as one of the league’s best
- Historic Jersey Retirements – Honored by two different franchises
- Executive Leadership – President of Women’s Basketball at Adidas
- Broadcasting Influence – Expanding the game’s reach to wider audiences
- Ownership Goals – Paving the way for athletes to lead at the highest level
A Future That Inspires
Candace Parker has shown that greatness doesn’t end with retirement. Whether on the court, in the boardroom, or behind a microphone, she continues to push boundaries and inspire athletes around the world.
Her determination to elevate women’s basketball ensures that her influence will be felt for decades to come. For fans, teammates, and aspiring athletes, Candace Parker’s journey stands as proof that true legends never fade—they simply evolve into even greater roles.
Her story reminds us that while jerseys may be retired, the impact of a champion lives on forever.