### Candace Parker's Legacy Honored: Chicago Sky to Retire No. 3 Jersey The Chicago Sky is set to honor WNBA legend Candace Parker by retiring her iconic No. 3 jersey on August 25, 2025, during a game against the Las Vegas Aces at Wintrust Arena. This momentous occasion marks Parker as the first player in Sky history to have her jersey retired, celebrating her significant contributions to the franchise and the league. Parker, a two-time WNBA MVP and a key player in leading the Sky to their first championship in 2021, is recognized as a sports icon in Chicago and beyond. Courtney Vandersloot, a franchise legend herself, expressed her excitement about the upcoming ceremony, emphasizing Parker's impact on the game and her deserving recognition [https://www.yardbarker.com/wnba/articles/courtney_vandersloot_reacts_to_candace_parkers_chicago_sky_jersey_retirement/s1_17615_42270120][https://www.blackenterprise.com/chicago-sky-candace-parker-no-3-jersey]. ### Structure of the Announcement and Its Significance 1. **Ceremony Details**: The retirement ceremony will take place on August 25, 2025, during a game against the Las Vegas Aces, marking a significant event for the franchise and its fans [https://www.cbssports.com/wnba/news/sky-to-retire-candace-parkers-no-3-jersey-wnba-legend-led-chicago-to-only-championship-in-franchise-history]. 2. **Parker's Achievements**: Candace Parker's career highlights include: - Two-time WNBA MVP - Finals MVP - Defensive Player of the Year - Six-time All-WNBA selection - Key player in securing the Sky's first championship in 2021 [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]. 3. **Community Impact**: Parker's connection to Chicago is profound, as she grew up in the area and has often expressed her pride in representing her hometown [https://www.wfla.com/sports/sports-illustrated/90878e9b/sky-to-retire-candace-parkers-jersey-this-season]. 4. **Vandersloot's Role**: Current Sky player Courtney Vandersloot is taking on a mentorship role for younger players while celebrating Parker's legacy, indicating a transition in leadership within the team [https://www.yardbarker.com/wnba/articles/courtney_vandersloot_reacts_to_candace_parkers_chicago_sky_jersey_retirement/s1_17615_42270120]. ### Supporting Evidence of Parker's Impact - **Career Statistics**: Parker's accolades include: - **Championships**: 2 (with Sparks and Sky) - **All-Star Appearances**: 6 - **MVP Awards**: 2 - **Defensive Player of the Year**: 1 - **Franchise Milestones**: Parker's arrival at the Sky was pivotal, leading to the franchise's first WNBA title in 2021, a historic achievement for the team [https://www.cbssports.com/wnba/news/sky-to-retire-candace-parkers-no-3-jersey-wnba-legend-led-chicago-to-only-championship-in-franchise-history][https://www.blackenterprise.com/chicago-sky-candace-parker-no-3-jersey]. ### Conclusion: A Celebration of Legacy and Future In summary, the Chicago Sky's decision to retire Candace Parker's No. 3 jersey is a significant acknowledgment of her contributions to the team and the WNBA. This event not only honors Parker's illustrious career but also serves as an inspiration for the next generation of players. 1. **Parker's Legacy**: Her achievements and impact on the game are undeniable, making her a deserving candidate for this honor. 2. **Community Connection**: Parker's roots in Chicago enhance the emotional significance of the ceremony. 3. **Future Leadership**: Vandersloot's mentorship role signifies a positive transition for the Sky as they look to build on Parker's legacy. This retirement ceremony is set to be a historic moment for the Chicago Sky and the WNBA, celebrating a player who has left an indelible mark on the sport [https://www.blackenterprise.com/chicago-sky-candace-parker-no-3-jersey][https://www.cbssports.com/wnba/news/sky-to-retire-candace-parkers-no-3-jersey-wnba-legend-led-chicago-to-only-championship-in-franchise-history].