Candace Parker

Candace Parker is an American former professional basketball player known for her standout WNBA career and international success with the United States.

Candace Parker is an American former professional basketball player known for her standout WNBA career and international success with the United States. She was the first player in WNBA history to win both Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player in the same season, in 2008. Parker played professionally in the WNBA and is widely regarded as one of the league’s top players of the 21st century.

Early life and college career

Candace Parker was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and played college basketball at Tennessee. She became one of the most highly regarded prospects in women’s basketball before entering the WNBA draft.

WNBA career

Parker was selected first overall by the Los Angeles Sparks in the 2008 WNBA draft. She became the first player to win Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same season and later added another MVP award in 2013.

Championships and accolades

Parker won WNBA titles with three different teams: the Sparks, Sky, and Aces. Her career also included major individual honors such as MVP awards and multiple Olympic gold medals.

International play

Parker was an important member of the U.S. women’s national team. She won Olympic gold medals at the 2008 Beijing and 2012 London Games.

Retirement and later recognition

Parker announced her retirement in April 2024 after a long professional career. Later biographical sources also note her Hall of Fame recognition among her career milestones.