Candace Parker honored by Sparks with retirement of her number 3 jersey

The Los Angeles Sparks paid historic tribute to Candace Parker by retiring her number 3 during halftime of their game against the Chicago Sky. This ceremony marks the culmination of an exceptional 16-season career in the WNBA, including 13 seasons with the Sparks.

The Sparks are retiring Candace Parker’s No. 3 jersey today ⭐️

She’s the only WNBA player top 10 all-time in points, assists, rebounds and blocks 🥴 pic.twitter.com/CVuC4GB0lJ

— ESPN (@espn) June 29, 2025

A legendary career crowned with unique recognition

The two-time WNBA MVP experienced an intense emotional moment seeing her number raised to the Crypto.com Arena rafters. « I come from a family that always told me I could become whoever I wanted to be, » Parker recalled. « I think I got here because I never changed. I made mistakes, but I always moved forward. »

The forward remains the only player in WNBA history to win both Rookie of the Year and MVP in her rookie season in 2008. A unique achievement that demonstrates her immediate impact on the league. This exceptional performance was just the beginning of an impressive career including a WNBA championship in 2016 with the Sparks, where she was named Finals MVP.

« When I was drafted to Los Angeles, it immediately became my home, » Candace Parker continued. « It’s where I’ve lived the longest. It’s important for me to see my number go up in these rafters because my 13 seasons here were all very special. I experienced highs, lows, heartbreaks and rewards, but I got to experience it all with an organization that believed in me when they had the first pick in the 2008 Draft. »

Endorsement from Los Angeles legends

The ceremony took on special significance with tributes from Lakers legends. Magic Johnson, Sparks owner, emphasized the historic significance of this recognition: « Having your jersey retired in Los Angeles means you’re a very, very, very big superstar alongside Kareem, Kobe and myself. It’s a special moment and an excellent way to say: Look at me, I made it. »

The iconic former point guard continued his tribute on social media: « It’s impossible to measure her legacy. She redefined excellence itself and inspired countless athletes worldwide […] Very few champions have their number retired in this city. Retiring Candace Parker’s number 3 isn’t just a celebration, but a symbol of the indelible mark she left on this franchise, in the WNBA, and throughout Los Angeles. »

This special evening isn’t over for Parker, who will be honored with another jersey retirement by the Chicago Sky on August 25th, demonstrating the lasting impact she had on every franchise she represented.