Candace Parker: NBA Champion, Olympian, and Entrepreneur
Biography
Candace Nicole Parker (born April 19, 1986) is a former American professional basketball player. Nicknamed "Ace," Parker played for the Los Angeles Sparks, Chicago Sky, and Las Vegas Aces in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA). She is widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, having won two WNBA championships, two Olympic gold medals, and several other accolades.
Early Life and Career
Parker was born in St. Louis, Missouri, and grew up in Naperville, Illinois. She showed exceptional athleticism from an early age and went on to play college basketball for the University of Tennessee. During her college career, Parker led the Lady Vols to two national championships and won numerous individual awards, including the Naismith College Player of the Year award in 2008.
Parker was drafted by the Los Angeles Sparks with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft. She quickly became a star in the league, averaging 18.5 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game in her rookie season. Parker helped the Sparks win their first WNBA championship in 2016.
International Success
Parker has also enjoyed tremendous success on the international stage. She has represented the United States Women's National Basketball Team at the Olympic Games three times, winning gold medals in 2008, 2012, and 2020. Parker has also led the United States to victory at the FIBA World Championships in 2014 and 2018.
Business Ventures
Beyond her basketball career, Parker has also achieved success as an entrepreneur. She is the co-founder of the women's sports platform Uninterrupted, which provides a voice for female athletes. Parker has also launched her own clothing line, Game Seven, and serves as an analyst for NBA games on TNT.
Personal Life
Parker is married to former WNBA player Shelden Williams. They have a daughter, Lailaa. Parker is known for her strong work ethic, leadership skills, and commitment to social justice.
Net Worth and Salary
Candace Parker has an estimated net worth of $5 million. She has earned a substantial salary throughout her basketball career, with her base salary for the 2023 season being $195,000. Parker also earns income from endorsements, investments, and her various business ventures.
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