Two-time WNBA MVP Candace Parker is reportedly leaving Los Angeles Sparks after 13 years with the franchise. Parker, who is a free agent this offseason, will sign with Chicago Sky, according to ESPN’s Ramona Shelburne.
The move is expected to be confirmed next week when free agents are able to officially agree to deal with teams.
Shelburne reports that Sparks made a big effort to keep Parker in LA, but the 34-year-old center was more attracted to the prospect of going to her hometown of Chicago. She wanted to spend the twilight years of her career playing in front of her family and friends while also being excited about Sky’s promising roster.
Candace Parker entered the WNBA as Sparks’ No.1 pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft. She immediately put the league on notice, becoming the first, and to this date only, player to win Rookie of the Year and MVP awards in the same season.
Parker followed this up with more accomplishments, both team and individual. She helped the Sparks win the WNBA title in 2016 while earning the second MVP award, five All-Star nods, six All-WNBA selections, and several other honors.
Parker is currently averaging 16.9 points, 8.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.6 blocks per game.
