Introduction
Candace Parker is more than a basketball legend—she’s a trailblazer whose mix of athletic excellence, personal vulnerability, and authenticity has resonated far beyond the court. From dominating the WNBA and winning Olympic gold to navigating motherhood, marriage, and retirement, Parker’s journey is one of resilience, evolution, and purpose. This article dives deep into who Candace Parker is, her marriage and kids, who she’s married to, and how she defined retirement on her own powerful terms.
I. Who Is Candace Parker?
Born April 19, 1986, in St. Louis, Missouri, Candace Nicole Parker—nicknamed “Ace”—emerged early as a generational talent. She starred at Naperville Central High School, then played for Tennessee Lady Vols, leading them to consecutive NCAA titles in 2007 and 2008. Notably, she became the first woman to dunk in an NCAA tournament game, and achieved numerous college honors, including Naismith Player of the Year, the Wooden and Wade Awards, and Final Four Most Outstanding Player (both years).
Drafted first overall in 2008 by the Los Angeles Sparks, Parker became the first player to earn both WNBA Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same season. Over her storied 16-year career, she won championships in 2016 (Sparks), 2021 (Chicago Sky), and 2023 (Las Vegas Aces)—making her the only WNBA player to win titles with three different teams.
Her accolades include two MV P awards (2008, 2013), Finals MVP (2016), multiple All-WNBA and All-Defensive selections, and two Olympic gold medals (2008 and 2012). Post-retirement, she’s become a prominent analyst for TNT Sports and was appointed President of Adidas Women’s Basketball.
II. Marriage & Kids
A. First Marriage & Daughter
In 2008, Candace married former NBA player Shelden Williams. In 2010, they welcomed a daughter, Lailaa Nicole Williams. The couple divorced in 2016 citing irreconcilable differences.
B. Life with Anna Petrakova
While playing in Russia in 2012 for UMMC Ekaterinburg, Parker met Anna (Anya) Petrakova, a Russian professional and Olympic basketball player. Their friendship eventually turned into a romantic relationship.
Candace proposed in early 2019, and they married in December 2019, though kept private until 2021.
C. Children with Anna
In February 2022, the couple welcomed their first son, Airr Larry Petrakov Parker. Their second son, Hartt Summitt, was born on May 21, 2024.
Candace also continues to co-parent her daughter, Lailaa, maintaining a blended, loving family.
III. Who Is She Married To?
Candace Parker is married to Anna Petrakova, also known as Anya Viktorovna Petrakova-Parker—born December 4, 1984. A celebrated former Russian basketball star, she played for the Russian national team (4th place at 2012 Olympics) and enjoyed a successful EuroLeague career, winning multiple championships and domestic titles.
They met in 2012 as teammates in Russia, kept their romance private, married in December 2019, and publicly announced their marriage in 2021. They maintain an inspiring family life together with Candace’s daughter and their two children.
IV. Retirement: The Next Chapter
A. Retirement Announcement
After an illustrious 16-year career, Candace Parker announced her retirement in April 2024, citing a desire to leave the sport better than she began and acknowledging a lingering foot injury.
She reflected on the emotional gap retirement left and encouraged current players to savor their journey.
B. Post-Retirement Life & Honors
Following her retirement, Candace continues her basketball legacy off the court—as a TNT/NBA TV analyst and Adidas Women’s Basketball President.
She authored her debut book, “The Can-Do Mindset”, released June 3, 2025. The book draws from her life philosophy and aims to empower readers to live boldly and purposefully.
C. Jersey Retirement Ceremonies
In June 2025, the Los Angeles Sparks held a halftime jersey retirement ceremony for her number 3, making her one of the few players honored by multiple franchises—with Chicago Sky also retiring her jersey.
V. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is Candace Parker retired?
Yes—she announced her retirement in April 2024 after 16 seasons.
Q2: Who is Candace Parker married to?
She is married to Anna Petrakova, a former Russian basketball player. They married in December 2019 and made their relationship public in 2021.
Q3: How many children does Candace Parker have?
She has three children: a daughter, Lailaa Nicole Williams (born 2010, with ex-husband Shelden Williams), and two sons with Anna—Airr Larry (born February 2022) and Hartt Summitt (born May 2024).
Q4: What has Candace Parker done since retiring?
She works as a TNT Sports analyst, serves as President of Adidas Women’s Basketball, released a book titled “The Can-Do Mindset” in June 2025, and has had her jersey retired by multiple teams.
Q5: Where did Candace Parker meet Anna?
They met in 2012 while playing together in Russia for UMMC Ekaterinburg. Their friendship eventually turned into romance.
Q6: What awards did Candace Parker win?
Her accolades include multiple NCAA titles, WNBA MVPs, Finals MVP, Rookie of the Year, Olympic gold medals, and All-WNBA/defensive selections, plus jersey retirements by two franchises.
VI. Conclusion
Candace Parker’s legacy transcends basketball. A fierce competitor, devoted mother, and authentic advocate, she has continually evolved—whether dominating on the court, navigating personal transitions, or shaping the future of her sport. Her story is one of collaboration, perseverance, and authenticity, encompassing championships, groundbreaking milestones, family life, and post-career influence. As a voice and leader, Candace Parker continues to inspire many—defining what it means to thrive on one’s own terms.
