The Los Angeles Sparks will retire Candace Parker's jersey on June 29, 2025.
The team announced the news Thursday, March 27. "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," Parker said in a press release.
"I’m grateful to my parents, who believed in me every step of the way, to my brothers who still are my heroes and to my wife and kids, who inspire me every day. The Staples Center (nowCrypto.comArena) raised Lailaa and this was her playground growing up. Holding the record for assists reminds me that basketball is never just about individual success — it’s about elevating others and being a part of something bigger than yourself. This jersey represents all the moments, all the connections, and all the love that got me here."
The ceremony will take place during halftime at the Sparks' game against the Chicago Sky. Parker is the third player from the organization to have their jersey retired — the two others are Lisa Leslie and Penny Toler.
Several of Parker's former teammates and coaches will be on hand to help celebrate Sparks during the halftime event.
Magic Johnson calls Candace Parker "one of the greatest players to ever grace the court"
"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 in a statement.
“Candace is the best all-around player that has ever played in the WNBA. Her legacy is immeasurable — she redefined excellence, was a champion on the court and for the Los Angeles community and inspired countless fans and future generations of athletes," Johnson continued. "Very few champions get to see their jersey hanging from the rafters in this city. Retiring Candace’s No. 3 jersey is not just a celebration of her extraordinary career, but a tribute to the enduring mark she's left on this organization, the WNBA, and the city of Los Angeles. She will forever be a part of the Sparks family."
Candace Parker had a legendary career
Parker played for the Sparks for 13 seasons. She was selected by the team as the No. 1 overall pick in the WNBA Draft (after graduating from the University of Tennessee) and she played alongside Leslie for the team. In her first game against the Phoenix Mercury, she racked up 34 points, 12 rebounds, and 8 assists; in October 2008 she became the first WNBA player to be named Rookie of the Year and MVP.
Parker's awards and accolades include being named WNBA MVP twice, three WNBA championships, and winning two gold medals at the Olympics — and that's just scratching the surface.
"For 13 seasons, we had a front-row seat to excellence personified. Candace Parker’s records and accolades speak for themselves, but her true impact lies in how she redefined what was possible in this sport,” said Sparks Governor and Managing Partner Eric Holoman.
“She inspired generations with her skill, leadership, and championship mentality, forging a legacy that goes beyond the trophies she won and the banners she raised—she changed the game and elevated women’s basketball. Candace defined an era for the Los Angeles Sparks, and her No. 3 will rightfully take its place among the legends of basketball and icons of Los Angeles. We are honored to retire her jersey and celebrate everything she has meant to this franchise, this city, and the game itself."