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Candace Parker

Caitlin Clark – WNBA News, Rumors & Updates, Stats

Who is Candace Parker?

Candace Parker is one of the greatest players in WNBA history, widely regarded for her versatility, leadership, and championship-winning career. Known as a forward who could do it all — scoring, rebounding, passing, and defending — Parker helped redefine what it meant to be a modern big in women’s basketball. Over her career, she became a 2-time WNBA Champion, 2-time MVP, and Finals MVP, while also representing Team USA with Olympic gold medals.

Candace Parker – Quick Facts

Detail Information
Full Name Candace Nicole Parker
Born April 19, 1986 (Age: 39)
Hometown St. Louis, Missouri
Height 6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)
Position Forward / Center
College University of Tennessee (2004–2008)
WNBA Draft 2008 – 1st Overall by Los Angeles Sparks
Teams Los Angeles Sparks (2008–2020), Chicago Sky (2021–2022), Las Vegas Aces (2023)
Jersey Numbers #3 (Sparks, Sky), #13 (Aces)
Notable Achievements 2× WNBA Champion, 2× MVP, 2× NCAA Champion, Olympic Gold Medalist
Social Media @candaceparker on Instagram

Early Life & College Career

Candace Parker was born on April 19, 1986, in St. Louis, Missouri. She grew up in a sports family, with her older brother Anthony Parker playing in the NBA.

  • Parker became a household name in high school, winning multiple state championships at Naperville Central in Illinois.

  • She was the first woman to ever win the McDonald’s All-American Dunk Contest (2004), beating several male players.

Parker went on to play college basketball at the University of Tennessee (2004–2008) under legendary coach Pat Summitt.

  • She led the Lady Vols to back-to-back NCAA Championships in 2007 and 2008.

  • In 2008, she won the Wooden Award, Naismith Award, and Wade Trophy, cementing her place as the best college player in the nation.

  • Known for her dunking ability, she was one of the few women to dunk in an NCAA Tournament game.

    WNBA Career

    Candace Parker was drafted 1st overall in the 2008 WNBA Draft by the Los Angeles Sparks.

    • Rookie Season (2008): Parker made history by winning WNBA Rookie of the Year and WNBA MVP in the same season, the only player to ever do so.

    • Los Angeles Sparks (2008–2020):

      • Won the 2016 WNBA Championship, earning Finals MVP.

      • 2-time WNBA MVP (2008, 2013).

      • Multiple All-Star selections and All-WNBA honors.

    • Chicago Sky (2021–2022):

      • Signed with her hometown team and immediately led them to the 2021 WNBA Championship.

    • Las Vegas Aces (2023):

      • Joined the Aces but dealt with injuries; however, she helped mentor the team’s stars.

    Parker officially retired in April 2024 after 16 incredible seasons.

    Career Highlights & Achievements

    • 2× WNBA Champion (2016, 2021)

    • WNBA Finals MVP (2016)

    • 2× WNBA MVP (2008, 2013)

    • 7× WNBA All-Star

    • WNBA Defensive Player of the Year (2020)

    • WNBA Rookie of the Year (2008)

    • WNBA 25th Anniversary Team

    • 2× NCAA Champion (2007, 2008 – Tennessee)

    • 2× Olympic Gold Medalist (2008, 2012 – USA Basketball)