The Los Angeles Sparks will retire Candace Parker's No. 3 jersey on June 29, the team announced Thursday.
She becomes the third player to have her jersey retired by the franchise, joining Hall of Famer Lisa Leslie, whose No. 9 jersey was retired in 2010, and former player and general manager Penny Toler, whose No. 11 jersey was retired in 2006.
"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 statement. "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. "
Parker was twice named the WNBA MVP in her 13 seasons with the Sparks. She also led the team to a title in 2016.
"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," Sparks co-owner Magic Johnson said in a statement. "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."
She left the Sparks as a free agent in 2021 to join her hometown Chicago Sky and led them to a title.
In 2023 she was a member of the Las Vegas Aces team that won a title, although she was injured for much of the season.
She retired in 2024 and has become a successful broadcaster with Turner Sports.
