Give credit where credit is due, and then some … The Los Angeles Sparks will honor basketball legend Candace Parker by retiring her No. 3 jersey in a special ceremony on June 29, the team announced Thursday (March 27). Parker joins an elite group, becoming only the third player in franchise history to receive this distinction, following Hall of Famer Lisa Leslie (No. 9, retired in 2010) and former player and general manager Penny Toler (No. 11, retired in 2006).
In a heartfelt statement, Parker reflected on the significance of the honor:
“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.”
Here’s what Sparks co-owner Magic Johnson said:
“Candace Parker has left an indelible mark on the Los Angeles Sparks, not only as one of the greatest players to ever grace the court but as 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 mark she’s left on this organization, the WNBA, and the city of Los Angeles. She will forever be a part of the Sparks family.”