In a monumental announcement, the Los Angeles Sparks declared that they will retire Candace Parker's No. 3 jersey on June 29, officially recognizing her immense contribution to the franchise and the game of basketball.

Parker becomes the third player in Sparks history to have her jersey retired, joining the ranks of legendary Hall of Famer Lisa Leslie, whose No. 9 jersey was honored in 2010, and former player and general manager Penny Toler, whose No. 11 jersey was retired back in 2006. This significant honor highlights Parker's status as one of the most celebrated athletes in women's basketball.

Expressing her heartfelt gratitude, Parker stated, "To see my jersey hanging in the rafters amongst other legends is truly an honor. This moment is not just about me -- it's about my family, my teammates, and the incredible support from the LA Sparks organization and fans. I'm grateful to my parents, who believed in me every step of the way, to my brothers who still are my heroes, and to my wife and kids, who inspire me every day."

Throughout her remarkable 13-season career with the Sparks, Parker earned the distinction of WNBA MVP twice and played a pivotal role in leading the team to a championship victory in 2016. Her impactful presence transcended the game, as she became an ambassador for women's sports through her relentless dedication and skill.

“Candace Parker has left an indelible mark on the Los Angeles Sparks," said Sparks co-owner Magic Johnson. "Not only is she one of the greatest players to ever grace the court, but she is also a true ambassador of our franchise and women's basketball as a whole. Retiring Candace's No. 3 jersey is not just a celebration of her extraordinary career, but a tribute to the enduring legacy she has left on this organization, the WNBA, and the city of Los Angeles. She will forever be a part of the Sparks family.”

After her time with the Sparks, Parker signed with her hometown Chicago Sky in 2021, where she helped the team secure a championship title. Following her departure from the Sky, she contributed to the Las Vegas Aces' championship win in 2023, despite being sidelined with injuries for a significant portion of the season.

In 2024, Parker officially announced her retirement from professional basketball, transitioning seamlessly into a successful broadcasting career with Turner Sports, where she continues to inspire and uplift future generations of athletes.

Mark your calendars—June 29 is set to be a historic day for the Sparks, fans, and the sport of basketball!