Candace Parker's Sparks' Jersey Officially Retired in Heartfelt Ceremony

Los Angeles Sparks' legend Candace Parker had her No. 3 jersey retired in a special halftime ceremony during halftime of Sunday's contest against Chicago. The initial March announcement came less than a year since Parker announced her retirement from basketball in a social media post last April. “It’s about enjoying the process, enjoying the journey," Parker said in the halftime speech. "LA isn’t just about ball, it’s now where we call home.” She became just the third player in Sparks' franchise history to have a jersey retired in the Crypto.com Arena rafters — joining Lisa Leslie (No. 9) and Penny Toler (No. 11). Parker, a three-time WNBA Champion and two-time MVP, spent 13 illustrious seasons with the Los Angeles Sparks. She earned Rookie of the Year honors in 2008 and averaged 16.9 points, 8.6 rebounds and 3.9 assists across her time in Los Angeles. She still remains the sole player in league history to win Rookie of the Year and MVP honors in the same season. Furthermore, she led the Sparks to a WNBA cha