KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The Chicago Sky announced on Wednesday that they will retire Candace Parker’s No. 3 jersey on August 25 during their game against the Las Vegas Aces.
The Lady Vol for Life and seven-time WNBA All-Star will have her jersey displayed in the rafters of Wintrust Arena, alongside the team’s 2021 championship banner. This will be Parker’s second jersey retirement, following the Los Angeles Sparks’ announcement in March to retire her number on June 29.
Parker expressed that this honor is deeply personal to her, reflecting on her childhood in Naperville, IL, where she never imagined her hometown team would retire her jersey.
“Growing up in Naperville, playing on local courts with my brothers and watching Chicago teams like the Bulls, who became symbols of success, I never thought I’d see my jersey in my hometown team’s rafters,” she said. “Returning to Chicago and helping the city win its first WNBA championship was incredibly meaningful. I’m immensely grateful to the city, the fans, and everyone who has been part of my journey. Chicago raised me, and it will always feel like home.”
According to a statement from the Chicago Sky, the team will celebrate Parker’s legacy with a special ceremony that includes an on-court tribute, special guests, a video montage, and more. The event will also highlight the launch of Parker’s new book, The Can-Do Mindset: How to Cultivate Resilience, Follow Your Heart, and Fight for Your Passions.
“Candace has made a lasting impact on women’s basketball at every level, inspiring countless players and fans through her exceptional leadership and talent both on and off the court. We are proud to retire her jersey and honor her remarkable legacy as a member of the Chicago Sky,” said Adam Fox, CEO and President of the Sky.
During her two seasons with the team, Parker played a key role in leading the Sky to their first-ever championship in 2021, averaging 13.8 points and 2.1 steals across 10 postseason games. She earned All-Star honors in both seasons with the Sky and was named to the All-WNBA First Team in 2022.
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