Introduction
Candace Nicole Parker is one of the most iconic figures in women’s basketball history. Born on April 19, 1986, Parker’s influence transcends her on-court accomplishments—she’s a three-time WNBA champion, two-time MVP, Olympic gold medalist, trailblazing broadcaster, and executive. This article dives deep into her background, including her family (especially her brothers), current age, WNBA championships, rings, and the legacy she’s built both on and off the court.
Early Life and Age
Candace Parker was born on April 19, 1986, in St. Louis, Missouri, and as of 2025, she is 39 years old. She grew up in Naperville, Illinois, where she honed her skills and blossomed into a basketball prodigy.
Family Roots: Brother(s)
Parker is the youngest of three children. She has two elder brothers:
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Anthony Parker, approximately 11 years her senior, is a former professional basketball player who competed in the NBA, Italy, and Israel. He’s considered one of Maccabi Tel Aviv’s most celebrated athletes.
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Marcus Parker, about eight years older, pursued a career in medicine rather than professional basketball. He attended Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and works in radiology.
Growing up with two athletic brothers, Candace often followed in their footsteps—initially hesitating to play basketball, but later fully embracing her place in the sport thanks to her supportive family.
WNBA Career and Championships
Professional Journey & Teams
Drafted first overall by the Los Angeles Sparks in 2008, Parker played there from 2008–2020, followed by stints with the Chicago Sky (2021–2022) and Las Vegas Aces (2023).
WNBA Championships and Rings
Candace Parker is a three-time WNBA champion, with titles in 2016 (LA Sparks), 2021 (Chicago Sky), and 2023 (Las Vegas Aces). She uniquely won championships with three different teams, a historic first in WNBA history.
Rings and Individual Accolades
Besides her championship rings, Parker’s trophy case is loaded:
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Two WNBA MVP awards (2008, 2013).
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WNBA Rookie of the Year (2008)—she’s the first in league history to earn MVP and Rookie of the Year in the same season.
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WNBA Finals MVP (2016).
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Defensive Player of the Year (2020).
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Final Four Most Outstanding Player twice in college (2007, 2008).
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7-time All-WNBA First Team, 3-time Second Team, multiple All-Star selections, and more.
Her career averages—a testament to her all-around game—stand at 16.0 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. Candace Parker brother.
Post-Retirement & Beyond
Despite retiring in spring 2024, Parker’s impact continues:
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Appointed President of Adidas Women’s Basketball—a historic move highlighting her leadership and industry influence.
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Ongoing career as a broadcaster and commentator for TNT since 2018, and expanding into Amazon’s WNBA/NBA coverage.
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Released a book titled “The Can-Do Mindset” in 2025, aiming to inspire resilience and purpose in readers.
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Her iconic No. 3 jersey was retired by the Los Angeles Sparks in June 2025, joining other legends like Lisa Leslie and Penny Toler.
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Notably chosen as General Manager of “Team Candace” for the 2025 NBA All-Star Game in a new format—another nod to her prominence in the basketball world.
Her net worth of approximately $8.1 million, fueled by broadcasting roles and endorsements, dwarfs her modest WNBA salary, reflecting her success off the court. Candace Parker brother.
Legacy and Influence
Candace Parker revolutionized the game: a versatile power forward with guard skills, she could play multiple positions—unicorn status in modern terms. She helped raise visibility for women’s basketball and inspired a generation following in her path. From dunking challenges in high school to global stardom, her journey symbolizes trailblazing dedication. Her work today continues to elevate the sport through leadership, media, and inspiration. Candace Parker brother.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q1: How old is Candace Parker?
A: Born on April 19, 1986, Candace Parker is 39 years old as of 2025.
Q2: Who are Candace Parker’s brothers?
A: Candace has two older brothers: Anthony Parker (about 11 years older), a former NBA and international pro; and Marcus Parker (about 8 years older), a medical professional in radiology.
Q3: How many WNBA championships has she won?
A: Candace Parker has won three WNBA championships: in 2016 (Sparks), 2021 (Sky), and 2023 (Aces).
Q4: Has Candace Parker won rings with multiple teams?
A: Yes—she is the first WNBA player to win championships with three different teams.
Q5: What major awards has Parker received?
A: Her awards include:
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2× WNBA MVP (2008, 2013)
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Finals MVP (2016)
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Rookie of the Year (2008)
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Defensive Player of the Year (2020)
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Multiple All-Star and All-WNBA team selections
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Final Four Most Outstanding Player (2007, 2008)
Q6: What is she doing post-retirement?
A: Parker is now:
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President of Adidas Women’s Basketball
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A TNT (and upcoming Amazon) broadcaster
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Author of “The Can-Do Mindset”
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Honored with a jersey retirement by the Sparks
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GM of Team Candace at the 2025 NBA All-Star Game
Conclusion
Candace Parker’s story is one of exceptional talent, resilience, leadership, and influence. From growing up with two supportive brothers, dominating college and professional basketball, to leading the way in sports media and corporate leadership—she continues to break barriers. Her legacy isn’t just measured in rings or awards, but in the doors she’s opened for the future of women’s basketball.
