Candace Parker calls retirement After Stellar 16-Year WNBA Run

Las Vegas Aces basketball sensation Candace Parker shared some big news on Sunday. After an amazing 16-year journey in the WNBA, she’s hanging up her jersey for good. The announcement came via her Instagram, where she simply stated, “I’m retiring.” As this news is a surprising for her fan same we have another tragic news.

In her Instagram post announcing her retirement, Candace Parker mentioned needing another surgery as one of the reasons for her decision.

“I promised I’d never cheat the game and that I’d leave it in a better place than I came into it,” she wrote on Instagram, reflecting on her decision to retire after a remarkable 16-year career in the WNBA. “The competitor in me always wants 1 more but it’s time. My HEART & body knew but I needed to give my mind time to accept it. I always wanted to walk off the court with no parade or tour just privately with the ones I love. What now was to be my last game I walked off the court with my daughter. I ended the journey just as I started it with her.”

Parker’s career has been nothing short of legendary. With three WNBA championships and two Olympic gold medals under her belt, she’s undoubtedly left her mark on the sport. In her heartfelt social media post, she explained, “The competitor in me always wants 1 more, but it’s time.” She acknowledged that while her heart and body were ready for this next chapter, it took her mind a bit longer to come to terms with it.

This decision comes after Parker battled through a foot injury last season, which limited her playing time to just 18 games with the Las Vegas Aces. Despite the setback, her impact on the court and off it will be remembered for years to come.

In 2023, Candace Parker, due to midseason foot surgery, only managed to make 18 appearances on the court.

In November, during an appearance on Good Morning America, 38-year-old Candace Parker addressed uncertainties about her future in basketball. She openly discussed her willingness to return to the court, but emphasized that her health was paramount.

Parker expressed her desire to resume playing if her physical condition allowed, but made it clear that she wouldn’t push herself to endure pain just to continue playing. This statement hinted at the challenges she was facing with her recovery from injury and the careful consideration she was giving to her next steps in the sport.

Candace Parker stands as one of the most celebrated players in the history of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). Hailing from a distinguished collegiate career at the University of Tennessee where she clinched two national championships, Parker’s talent was evident early on.

In 2008, the Los Angeles Sparks recognized her exceptional abilities, selecting her as the first overall pick in the WNBA draft. Bursting onto the professional scene, Parker made an immediate impact as a rookie. It is showcasing her versatility and dominance on the court. Her inaugural season saw her averaging an impressive 18.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game. A performance that not only earned her the Rookie of the Year title. But also propelled her to claim the coveted Most Valuable Player (MVP) award.

This remarkable achievement marked the beginning of Parker’s illustrious career. Its setting the stage for her to become a true icon in the realm of women’s basketball.

Following her sensational debut season in the WNBA, Candace Parker continued to solidify her status as one of the league’s elite players. In 2013, she captured her second Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, showcasing her exceptional skills and leadership on the court.

Representing the Los Angeles Sparks once again, Parker delivered an impressive performance. Throughout the season, averaging 17.9 points, 8.7 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game. Her consistent excellence in scoring, rebounding, and playmaking demonstrated her all-around impact on the game. So, earning her widespread recognition and admiration from fans and peers alike.

This second MVP accolade served as a testament to Parker’s enduring dominance and her unwavering commitment to excellence in the sport of basketball.

In 2016, Candace Parker’s long awaited dream of securing a WNBA championship became a reality. When her team, the Los Angeles Sparks, triumphed over the Minnesota Lynx in a hard fought battle during the WNBA Finals.

This victory was a culmination of Parker’s relentless dedication and perseverance throughout her career. Finally tasting the sweet victory of a WNBA title, Parker’s legacy as one of the greatest players in the league was solidified even further. However, her journey to greatness didn’t end there.

In 2021, Parker added another remarkable chapter to her illustrious career. When she clinched her second WNBA championship, this time with her hometown team, the Chicago Sky. The significance of this achievement extended beyond the court, as it symbolized a triumphant return home for Parker. Further cemented her status as a legend in the world of women’s basketball. These unforgettable moments of glory not only showcased Parker’s extraordinary talent. But also served as a testament to her enduring legacy and indomitable spirit.

In 2023, Candace Parker, a seven-time all Star, made history in the WNBA by becoming the first player ever to win a championship with three different teams. This incredible feat occurred when the undermanned Las Vegas Aces triumphed over the New York Liberty in the Finals. Parker’s exceptional leadership and skill were instrumental in guiding her team to victory. Which showcasing her ability to elevate any team she joins.

This landmark achievement further solidified Parker’s legacy as one of the most accomplished. And versatile players in the history of the WNBA, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.

On social media, a recurring theme emerges: whenever a player achieves a statistical milestone. It seems Candace Parker has already reached it.

A glance at her career numbers underscores the versatility and prowess of the 6’4″ forward. She ranks ninth all-time in points scored, tallying an impressive 6,574 throughout her illustrious career.

Additionally, Parker stands third in career rebounds with 3,467, showcasing her dominance on the boards. Her playmaking ability is equally impressive, as she ranks seventh in assists with 1,634. Defensively, Parker’s impact is undeniable, ranking fifth in career blocks with 619 and 16th in steals with 523. These staggering statistics not only highlight Parker’s individual brilliance. But also her significant contributions to the game of basketball as a whole.

Candace Parker was a trailblazer ahead of her time, defying the traditional mold of a big player by showcasing her ability to stretch the floor. Despite being somewhat undersized for her position, she boasted a solid 33.3 percent shooting average from beyond the arc. One can only wonder about the impact she would have had if she had debuted in the WNBA now. Where teams prioritize switchability and spacing even more.

Parker’s retirement, while not entirely surprising considering her previous remarks, deals a significant blow to Las Vegas’ quest for a third consecutive championship. She seamlessly adapted to a more supportive role on the team. Which serving as a valuable asset as the fifth scoring option. Her absence will undoubtedly leave a void in the Aces’ lineup, as her versatility and experience were key components of their success.

Even if Candace Parker had announced her retirement before the start of free agency. It would have been nearly impossible for the Las Vegas Aces. To find a replacement of similar caliber due to their restricted salary cap flexibility.

As the season opener looms just around the corner. Whose head coach Becky Hammon faces the daunting task of filling Parker’s shoes. With limited options available, Hammon will likely rely heavily on forward Megan Gustafson to step up and fill the void left by Parker’s departure.

Gustafson will need to embrace this opportunity and elevate her game to help maintain the Aces’ competitive edge in the upcoming season.