### Chicago Sky to Honor Candace Parker with No. 3 Jersey Retirement The Chicago Sky will retire Candace Parker's iconic No. 3 jersey on August 25, 2025, during a game against the Las Vegas Aces at Wintrust Arena. This significant event marks the second jersey retirement for Parker, who also had her jersey retired by the Los Angeles Sparks earlier in the summer. Parker, a Chicago native, played two seasons with the Sky, leading the team to its first WNBA championship in 2021 and earning All-Star honors in both seasons. The retirement ceremony is a tribute to her impactful career and contributions to women's basketball, particularly in her hometown. ### Breakdown of the Announcement and Its Significance 1. **Event Details**: - The jersey retirement ceremony will take place on August 25, 2025, at Wintrust Arena during a game against the Las Vegas Aces [https://www.blackenterprise.com/chicago-sky-candace-parker-no-3-jersey]. 2. **Parker's Legacy**: - Candace Parker is celebrated for leading the Chicago Sky to their first WNBA championship in 2021, a pivotal moment in the franchise's history [https://www.cbssports.com/wnba/news/sky-to-retire-candace-parkers-no-3-jersey-wnba-legend-led-chicago-to-only-championship-in-franchise-history]. - She is also a two-time WNBA MVP and has had a significant impact on the sport, both on and off the court [https://sports.yahoo.com/wnba/breaking-news/article/sky-to-retire-jersey-of-candace-parker-who-helped-lead-chicago-to-title-in-1-of-her-2-seasons-with-the-team-010519918.html]. 3. **Community Impact**: - Parker expressed her gratitude for being honored by her hometown team, reflecting on her journey from playing in local courts to having her jersey retired [https://www.wfla.com/sports/sports-illustrated/90878e9b/sky-to-retire-candace-parkers-jersey-this-season]. - The announcement has sparked positive reactions from fans and the WNBA community, highlighting the importance of recognizing athletes who inspire future generations [https://www.sportskeeda.com/us/wnba/news-ya-ll-need-retire-angel-reese-now-wnba-fans-react-chicago-sky-s-heartfelt-gesture-toward-legend-candace-parker]. ### Supporting Evidence of Parker's Impact - **Career Achievements**: - **WNBA Championships**: 2 (including 1 with the Sky) - **All-Star Selections**: 6 - **MVP Awards**: 2 - **Community Engagement**: Parker has been a role model for young athletes, particularly in Chicago, where she has inspired many through her achievements and advocacy for women's sports [https://chicago.suntimes.com/chicago-sky/2025/05/28/sky-to-retire-future-hall-of-famer-candace-parkers-no-3-jersey-in-august]. ### Conclusion: A Historic Tribute to a WNBA Icon In summary, the Chicago Sky's decision to retire Candace Parker's No. 3 jersey is a historic tribute to a player who has not only excelled in her sport but has also made a lasting impact on her community. 1. **Significance of the Event**: The ceremony on August 25 will honor Parker's contributions to the Sky and the WNBA. 2. **Parker's Legacy**: Her achievements and influence extend beyond basketball, making her a role model for many. 3. **Community Response**: The announcement has been met with enthusiasm, showcasing the deep connection between Parker and her hometown. This event not only celebrates Parker's individual accomplishments but also reinforces the importance of recognizing athletes who pave the way for future generations in women's sports [https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/nba/top-stories/wnba-legend-candace-parkers-legacy-soars-high-as-the-chicago-sky-decides-to-retire-her-jersey-and-raise-it-to-the-rafters/articleshow/121478201.cms].