WNBA legend Candace Parker announces retirement after 16 seasons, bidding farewell to basketball in a heartfelt Instagram post.
WNBA legend Candace Parker has declared her retirement from professional basketball after an illustrious career spanning 16 seasons. The announcement came earlier today via an Instagram post, where the 38-year-old forward for the Las Vegas Aces reflected on her journey and expressed gratitude for her experiences in the sport.
In her heartfelt message, Parker emphasized her commitment to leaving the game in a better place than when she entered it, stating, “I promised I’d never cheat the game & that I’d leave it in a better place than I came into it.” She shared a poignant photo of herself as a young child holding a basketball, symbolizing her lifelong connection to the sport.
Parker’s decision to retire comes after experiencing a foot injury during the 2023 season, which required surgery for a fractured foot and sidelined her from playing for the Las Vegas Aces during their championship-winning season. Reflecting on her recent challenges, Parker candidly shared the physical toll of playing with injuries throughout her career, including undergoing 10 surgeries.
Throughout her tenure in the WNBA, Parker established herself as one of the most accomplished athletes in league history. As the No. 1 draft pick for the Los Angeles Sparks in 2008, she quickly made her mark, securing NCAA titles with the University of Tennessee Lady Vols before transitioning to the professional stage. Her accolades include multiple championship victories, Olympic gold medals in 2008 and 2012, and prestigious awards such as Rookie of the Year and MVP.
Parker’s impact extended beyond her on-court achievements, as she inspired fans and aspiring athletes alike with her dedication, resilience, and authenticity. In her Instagram post, she expressed gratitude for the support of her family, friends, teammates, coaches, and fans, acknowledging their role in making her journey special.
In February 2023, Parker spoke with PEOPLE about her decision to join the Las Vegas Aces, highlighting her desire to compete for a championship while being closer to her family on the West Coast. Despite the challenges and sacrifices inherent in a professional sports career, Parker remained steadfast in her passion for the game and her commitment to staying true to herself.
As she bids farewell to professional basketball, Parker offered words of wisdom to aspiring athletes, acknowledging the profound impact of transitioning away from the game. While mourning the end of this chapter in her life, she expressed optimism about embracing new opportunities and continuing to love the game in different ways in the future.
Candace Parker’s retirement marks the conclusion of a remarkable career characterized by excellence, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the sport she loves. As she embarks on the next chapter of her life, her legacy in the WNBA will endure as an inspiration to generations of basketball players and fans worldwide.