Basketball legend Candace Parker has officially announced her retirement from the sport, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy as one of the greatest players to ever grace the court.
The 38-year-old mum-of-three has had a remarkable career, breaking numerous records and amassing an impressive bank balance through her hard work, expertise, and magnetic personality.
Originally from Missouri, Candace Parker made her mark in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) playing for teams such as the Los Angeles Sparks, Chicago Sky, and Las Vegas Aces. Known for her height, athleticism, and versatility, she was the first overall draft pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft by the Los Angeles Sparks. Throughout her career, Candace earned accolades such as two Olympic gold medals, seven WNBA All-Star selections, and championships with various teams.
Parker’s athletic prowess and 6ft 4in frame contributed significantly to her success on the court. She became the first WNBA player to win both the Rookie of the Year and MVP awards in the same season in 2008. Known for her scoring ability, she averaged 16 points per game in the regular season and 17.4 points per game in the playoffs, in addition to impressive rebound, assist, and block numbers. Her achievements include three WNBA championships, a Finals MVP in 2016, and multiple MVP honors.
Off the court, Candace Parker’s personal life has also been a subject of interest. She married fellow basketball player Anna Petrakova in a private ceremony in 2019 and the couple welcomed their first child together in 2022. Prior to this, Candace was married to NBA star Shelden Williams, with whom she shares a daughter named Lailaa Nicole Williams.
Despite her incredible success in basketball, Candace Parker’s net worth is estimated to be over $8.1 million, largely due to lucrative endorsement deals with top brands like Adidas, Google, and Gatorade. She also works as an NBA analyst for Turner Sports, making regular appearances on TNT broadcasts in both the US and UK.
