Candace Parker Re-Signs with Los Angeles Sparks


Los Angeles – The Los Angeles Sparks have re-signed two-time WNBA MVP Candace Parker, executive vice president and general manager Penny Toler announced today. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

“Having Candace back in a Sparks uniform is very exciting for everyone, as she is one of the top basketball talents in the world,” said Sparks head coach Brian Agler. “Candace was a huge impact on the Sparks turnaround in 2015. She works very hard at the game of basketball and is very influential within our team dynamics. Candace is the most versatile player in the WNBA and I am confident Candace will continue to grow due to her love of the game and incredible work ethic.”

Parker returns to Los Angeles for her ninth season, having played her entire WNBA career with the Sparks. The 6-4 forward owns career averages of 17.8 points, 9.1 rebounds and 3.6 assists over 195 games played (192 starts) with the Sparks. Last season, despite resting the first 17 games, she averaged a double-double with 19.4 points and 10.1 rebounds in 16 games played (all starts).

The only WNBA player to record 20 points and 10 assists in a game, Parker also co-led the League in point/rebound double – doubles (alongside teammate Jantel Lavender), tallying 12 for the season. On August 18, she set a Sparks franchise record for most steals (8) in a game and career-highs in three-point field goals made (5) and assists (10).

The #1 pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft, she became the first WNBA player to win both the MVP and Rookie of the Year award in the same season.  A two-time WNBA MVP (2008,2013), three-time WNBA All-Star (2011,2013,2014), including 2013 All-Star MVP, and has been named a three-time All-WNBA First Team selection (2012,2013,2014) and a two-time Second Team selection (2009, 2015).  Parker has two Olympic Gold medals as a member of Team USA (2008, 2012).

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