LAS VEGAS, NV — There is a famous line from the late Notorious B.I.G that said, “with all the ladies with style and grace…”, no one has exemplified more style on and off the court and balanced things into victories than Candace Parker.
Parker was named to the 2021 WNBA All-Star game and once again left off the United Stated Olympic basketball team which did not sit well with many fans and those who cover the league. Parker has made her transition form the court in the off season to the television analyst chair (Turner Sports), to her return to Chicago playing for the Sky as smooth as silk. Parker is the first female athlete to grace the cover of NBA2K22, along with the appearing on the cover of SLAM Magazine.
“I grew up a basketball junkie,” Parker said. “To have the opportunity to play in the WNBA and compete against these people here, I don’t take it for granted… you grow up as a kid, you wanna be on SLAM, it’s so special.”
Many players in the league look up to her including Las Vegas Aces Liz Cambage, A’ja Wilson and Dearica Hamby, her Sky teammates to name a few.
“Obviously there is a lot more basketball behind me than in front of me, but moments like that when you grow up as a kid you watch television. Then you want to play in the league, then you want your shoe… and you want to be on Slam (Magazine) it’s really special.“
Parker understood that her basketball mortality is coming sooner than later however she is focused on continuing to compete for another championship and would love to bring a trophy to her hometown team. The place where not only she learned the game, but also represents for so many people in Chicago, while never forgetting Chicago basketball legend Ben Wilson who’s life was cut short due to violence.
“Benji…it’s just a tragedy that the world didn’t get see his talents. I think everybody in the Chicagoland area has a broken heart for that story, and I just want pay homage for those that paved the way for me.“
Ben “Benji” Wilson ranked as the top high school player in the country out of Chicago, however Wilson was shot twice by then 16-year Billy Moore after an argument ensued between the two individuals. ESPN featured a 30 For 30 regarding Wilson’s life and legacy.
Parker is truly a gem not only to the sport of basketball, but to the culture itself and has shown with determination and love for what you desire… anything is possible. The balance between motherhood and business is never easy but goals can be accomplished if you are willing to put in the work necessary for success.
