Candace Parker has once again cemented her place in basketball history as her No. 3 jersey was retired by the Chicago Sky. Just months after the Los Angeles Sparks honored her with the same tribute, the legendary forward was celebrated in front of a packed crowd in her hometown, closing one of the most influential careers in women’s basketball.
The ceremony, held during Chicago’s game against the Las Vegas Aces on August 25, 2025, was emotional, heartfelt, and a reminder of Parker’s impact not only on the court but also on the future of the WNBA.
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Hometown Celebration for Candace Parker
The night was filled with cheers, standing ovations, and tears as the Chicago Sky lifted Parker’s jersey into the rafters. For fans in Illinois, it was more than just a sports milestone—it was the recognition of a hometown hero who returned to lead her team to a championship in 2021.
Parker became only the second player in WNBA history to have her jersey retired by two franchises. This rare achievement reflects her ability to leave lasting legacies in both Los Angeles and Chicago, the cities where she delivered championships and unforgettable moments.
Friends, family, and former teammates gathered for the occasion, sending messages of gratitude and admiration. Video tributes highlighted her leadership, her championship-winning performance, and the bond she created with the Sky community in such a short time.
Key Points Summary – Quick Takeaways
✨ Dual Honor – Candace Parker’s jersey retired by both the Sparks and the Sky.
✨ Chicago’s Pride – Sky fans celebrated a hometown icon whose arrival changed the franchise forever.
✨ Life Beyond Basketball – Parker is embracing new chapters as a broadcaster, mother, and ambassador for women’s sports.
✨ A Lasting Legacy – Her influence continues to inspire the next generation of athletes.
A Legacy Spanning Two Decades
Candace Parker’s career stretched across 16 years, filled with accolades that few in the sport can match. She entered the WNBA as the No. 1 overall pick in 2008 and wasted no time making history by winning both Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same season. With the Sparks, she won a championship in 2016 and added another with the Chicago Sky in 2021. In 2023, she capped her career with a third title while playing for the Las Vegas Aces.
Her style of play—versatile, powerful, and ahead of its time—reshaped how forwards were expected to contribute. Whether dominating in the post, leading the fast break, or knocking down perimeter shots, Parker’s game was as complete as any player in WNBA history.
Transition Beyond the Court
Though her jersey now hangs in the rafters, Candace Parker is far from finished making an impact. She has already become a familiar face in broadcasting, breaking down NBA and NCAA games with the same poise she once displayed on the floor.
In addition, Parker has embraced leadership roles in sports business, taking charge of advancing women’s basketball initiatives through her partnership with global brands. She also continues to inspire as a mother, recently sharing moments of joy with her daughter, reflecting on how she is channeling her energy into family and mentorship.
Her ability to pivot into new roles shows that the end of her playing days is just the beginning of another influential chapter.
Why This Jersey Retirement Matters
For fans of the Chicago Sky, Parker’s jersey retirement is more than symbolic—it represents the moment when the franchise truly arrived on the national stage. Her return home to Chicago led directly to the Sky’s first championship, a moment etched forever in WNBA history.
For the league, it reinforces the growing recognition of women’s basketball legends. Honoring players like Parker with ceremonies that match the grandeur of their accomplishments helps elevate the WNBA’s visibility and underscores the importance of preserving its history.
Looking Ahead
Candace Parker’s story is one of excellence, resilience, and trailblazing success. From Naperville, Illinois, to Los Angeles, Chicago, and Las Vegas, she has touched every corner of the game. Her influence will now live in the banners hanging high above the court, but also in the countless players she has inspired.
As she embraces her post-playing career, her voice, leadership, and vision promise to keep shaping basketball for years to come. Fans who witnessed her greatness can now celebrate knowing her legacy is secure in the rafters—forever a reminder of how one player can change the game.
Candace Parker may have stepped away from the hardwood, but her impact is far from finished. The next chapter of her journey will be just as powerful, and fans everywhere will be watching.