Sparks announce Candace Parker jersey retirement on June 29

Candace Parker will now be the third player in Sparks history to have her jersey hanging in the rafters of Crypto.com Arena, the team announced on Thursday.

Candace Parker will have her legacy rightfully immortalized this season.

On Thursday, the Sparks announced that Parker’s jersey would be retired on June 29 when they host the Chicago Sky. She will be the third Sparks player to have their jersey retired, joining Lisa Leslie and Penny Toler.

Parker was a legend from the start. She is the only player in WNBA history to win both the Rookie of the Year and MVP awards in the same season.

During her career, Parker won three WNBA titles, including one for the Sparks in 2016. She won the WNBA MVP in 2008 and 2013, was named WNBA Defensive Player in 2020 and is a five-time All-Star.

She played for the Sparks for 13 seasons, averaging 16.9 points, 8.6 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game.

Parker released a statement regarding the announcement with the Sparks.

“To see my jersey hanging in the rafters amongst other legends is truly an honor. This moment is not just about me — it’s about my family, my teammates, and the incredible support from the LA Sparks organization and fans,” said Candace Parker.

Sparks Co-owner Magic Johnson also released a statement about Parker receiving this honor.

“Candace Parker has left an indelible mark on the Los Angeles Sparks, not only as one of the greatest players to ever grace the court, but as a true ambassador of our franchise and women’s basketball as a whole. Beginning with her arrival to the City of Angels in 2008, she not only lived up to the expectations placed on her as a two-time Gatorade Basketball Player of the Year and NCAA National Champion, she far exceeded them. Her unparalleled skill, relentless drive, and leadership elevated the Sparks to new heights and set a new standard of greatness,” said Sparks Co-Owner Earvin “Magic” Johnson.

With Parker’s jersey retirement happening during a game between the Sparks and the Sky, it allows the Chicago fans, who also cheered for her during her time with their team, the opportunity to celebrate her legacy as her jersey gets hung inside the rafters of Crypto.com Arena this summer.

After leaving the Sparks following the 2020 season, Parker won a title with the Sky in 2021, bringing her hometown team their first and only WNBA championship.

The only thing left to add to Parker’s legacy at this point is a Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame induction. She will be eligible for the Hall of Fame in 2027 and will likely be a first-ballot selection, given her pedigree.

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