Candace Parker Not a WNBA Owner Yet, but Her Business Is Booming

Candace Parker retired from the WNBA in 2024 and swiftly transitioned into a multifaceted business career. Within a year, she was appointed president of Adidas women's basketball, published a memoir titled "The Can-Do Mindset," launched a podcast called "Post Moves" with Aliyah Boston, and joined an ownership group aiming to bring a WNBA expansion team to Tennessee.

Despite being one of the league's greatest players, Parker's WNBA salary never exceeded $200,000 annually during her 16-year career. She supplemented her income by playing overseas, notably earning $1.2 million in Russia in 2011, and through endorsements with brands like Adidas, Gatorade, and Google. In her final season (2023), she ranked No. 13 on Forbes' list of highest-paid female athletes, with only $100,000 coming from the WNBA.

Parker has built a diverse investment portfolio, including stakes in Angel City FC (NWSL) and League One Volleyball, while expanding her broadcasting role. She signed a multi-year extension with TNT Sports as an analyst for NCAA men's basketball and will join Amazon Prime's NBA coverage team alongside notable former players. Her analytical prowess and work ethic have been praised by peers like Becky Hammon.

Parker's jersey was retired by the Chicago Sky, making her the second WNBA player honored by two teams. Teammates and rivals acknowledged her off-court impact, with Chelsea Gray emphasizing how Parker evolved from seeking "a seat at the table" to "creating tables" for others in business.

Her ultimate goal is to own a stake in a WNBA or NBA team. Although her Nashville expansion bid recently failed (with teams awarded to Cleveland, Detroit, and Philadelphia instead), the group, led by Bill Haslam and including Peyton Manning, plans to pursue future opportunities.