Angel Reese WNBA Candace Parker Retirement Statement SportsRush

WNBA legend Candace Parker announces retirement after 16 years. Chicago Sky's Angel Reese aims to carry on Parker's legacy. Fans react.

The basketball world is currently mourning the retirement of WNBA legend Candace Parker, who recently announced her decision to step away from the game after an illustrious 16-year career. Parker, a 3-time champion best known for her time with the LA Sparks, captured the hearts of fans with her 2021 Championship win with her hometown team, the Chicago Sky.

Chicago Sky's Angel Reese, a promising draftee hoping to follow in Parker's footsteps, initially planned to honor the legend by wearing the No. 3 jersey for the team. However, she later abandoned the idea upon learning that the organization intended to retire Parker's number in the future.

In a heartfelt Instagram post, Parker bid farewell to the sport she dedicated her life to, citing the toll that multiple surgeries had taken on her body as a factor in her decision to retire. Despite not leaving the game with the most championship rings, Parker's impact on the sport is undeniable, as players continue to strive to uphold her legacy.

The news of Parker's retirement sent shockwaves through the WNBA community, with fans, media members, and fellow players expressing their admiration for the 38-year-old's contributions to the game. Even NBA legend Isiah Thomas hailed Parker as the greatest to ever play the game, recognizing her influence in pushing the sport forward.

As the WNBA season approaches, fans will have to adjust to a season without Parker's electrifying performances on the court. Her departure marks the end of an era, as the basketball world bids farewell to another all-time great.