KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Legendary Lady Vol and WNBA star Candace Parker announced her retirement on Sunday through an Instagram Post.
After her announcement, a wave of love and support flooded social media for Parker, including several former Lady Vols who have been a part of her incredible journey.
Women's Basketball Hall of Famer Tamika Catchings dominated at Tennessee from 1997-2001 before embarking on a 15-year WNBA career. She retired in 2016 and knows what it takes to walk away from the game.
Catchings commented on X supporting Parker, saying, "On to the next lil Sis…Have loved watching and being by your side from the beginning @ladyvol_hoops, @la_sparks, @chicagosky, @lvaces and everywhere in between."
Former Lady Vol Isabelle Harrison, now with the Chicago Sky, also expressed her gratitude for Parker and everything she's done for women's basketball. Harrison said she has looked up to Parker since she was growing up.
"For those who don’t know, Candace is the reason I went to Tennessee and still my favorite player of all time," said Harrison. "Thank you for everything you gave to the game."
Parker's decorated career is one that sports fans all over the country can admire. The 38-year-old is one of the most legendary players in basketball. Parker won two NCAA titles in 2007 and 2008 at Tennessee before being selected No. 1 overall in the 2008 WNBA draft.
Her legacy at Tennessee under Pat Summit jump-started her incredible career in the WNBA, and she is undoubtedly receiving flowers from Tennessee fans, former players and basketball lovers all over. One was former NBA star Dwyane Wade, another Chicago great, who said, "MY GOAT...Enjoy your retirement! Your impact on the game will last forever."
