Chicago City Wire

The Chicago Sky will honor Candace Parker by retiring her No. 3 jersey on August 25 during their game against the Las Vegas Aces. The ceremony will take place at Wintrust Arena, where Parker's jersey will join the team's 2021 championship banner.

Reflecting on her journey, Parker shared, "Growing up in Naperville, playing on courts around here with my brothers, and watching Chicago teams like the Bulls who became synonymous with winning, I never imagined one day my jersey would hang in the rafters of my hometown team." She added, "Coming home to Chicago and helping bring the city its first WNBA championship here—it was personal. I’m beyond grateful to the city, the fans, and everyone who’s been part of my journey. Chicago raised me, and this will always be home."

The retirement ceremony will include an on-court tribute featuring special guests. Parker will address fans following a video montage showcasing her achievements with the Sky.

Fans can purchase limited edition merchandise at the arena and online and participate in a special Candace Parker-themed giveaway. The event also coincides with promotional activities for Parker's book release titled "The Can-Do Mindset: How to Cultivate Resilience, Follow Your Heart, and Fight for Your Passions."

Wintrust Arena will display memorabilia highlighting Parker's career milestones. The organization plans to share stories about her time with the Sky across various platforms leading up to the event.

Sky CEO and President Adam Fox praised Parker: “Candace Parker is a legend, future hall-of-famer, and synonymous with Illinois basketball. We’re thrilled she decided to come home to Chicago to help the Sky win a championship in 2021.” He continued by stating that “Candace has left an indelible mark on women’s basketball at every level and has inspired countless players and fans through her outstanding leadership and basketball talent on and off the court.”

Parker played high school basketball at Naperville Central High School before joining the Sky in 2021 for two seasons. During her tenure with Chicago, she averaged 13.2 points per game along with notable contributions in rebounds, assists, steals, and blocks over 55 starts. Her performance was pivotal in securing their first-ever championship in 2021.

The Chicago Sky were founded in 2005 by Michael Alter as an independently owned women's professional basketball team competing in the WNBA.