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Tennessee Vols legend officially announces retirement after 16-year career

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Zach Ragan | Last updated 4/29/24

Tennessee Vols basketball legend Candace Parker officially called it a career on Sunday, surprisingly announcing her retirement from the WNBA after entering the league 16 years ago.

Parker re-signed with the Las Vegas Aces earlier this offseason, but she wrote on Instagram on Sunday that her heart and body knew it was time to retire.

"The competitor in me always wants one more, but it’s time," wrote Parker. "My HEART and body knew, but I needed to give my mind time to accept it."

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A post shared by Candace Parker (@candaceparker)

"After a historic 16-year career, which saw her win 3 WNBA championships, 2 MVP awards, and a pair of Olympic gold medals, Candace Parker has announced her retirement," said the Aces in a statement on Sunday. "The Las Vegas Aces family is thankful for the role Candace played in the 2023 WNBA championship season, and for giving all of us the opportunity to watch one of the GOATs of the game over the past two."

A statement from the Las Vegas Aces. pic.twitter.com/2kzuj1ZCFA
— Las Vegas Aces (@LVAces) April 28, 2024

Parker is a two-time NCAA champion and she was the Naismith player of the year in 2008 before getting drafted No. 1 overall by the Los Angeles Sparks. The Lady Vols legend won three WNBA championships, made seven all-star appearances, and earned league MVP honors in 2008 and 2013. Parker was also a Finals MVP in 2016.

After Parker announced her retirement, fellow Vols legend Peyton Manning was among those who took to social media to celebrate the former Tennessee star's career.