A three-time WNBA champion, MVP and Olympic gold medalist, and the first woman to dunk in an NCAA tournament game, Candace Parker is a legend. Hearts across the country shattered at the announcement of her retirement. However, she leaves the game completely restructuring the boundaries around what it means to be a successful female athlete. Renowned for her exceptional skills, fierce competitiveness and undeniable leadership, she is considered one of the greatest female basketball players of all time.
While her impact can’t be quantified, it’s worth noting that Parker has earned an impressive living through her athletic career. From analyst work to endorsement deals, the 38-year-old hasn’t taken much time off of work. Here’s what to know about Parker’s net worth.
How Did Candace Parker Become Famous?
Widely regarded as one of the greatest players in WNBA history, Parker was born on April 19, 1986, in St. Louis, Missouri. Parker’s college career was a fitting start to her legacy. Under the guidance of legendary coach Pat Summitt, she led the Tennessee Lady Volunteers to two NCAA championships in 2007 and 2008. She then made an immediate impact in the league after being selected as the first overall pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft by the Los Angeles Sparks. In her rookie season, she was named the WNBA’s Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player (MVP). This made her the first player in league history to win both honors in the same year.
She earned many more accolades, including the NCAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player in 2007, and was named the Naismith College Player of the Year in both 2007 and 2008. Over the years, Parker only continued to impress, earning multiple All-Star selections, MVP honors and leading her team to multiple playoff appearances. Her accolades in the WNBA include two championships with the Los Angeles Sparks and later the Chicago Sky, where she helped lead the team to its first-ever title.
A versatile forward known for her scoring, rebounding and playmaking, Parker quickly became a star. This led to numerous accolades and achievements across the women’s basketball realm. Her role as a trailblazer for female athletes broke barriers in terms of visibility and impact. She’s an advocate for gender equality in sports and works as a prominent commentator and analyst, further contributing to the evolution of women’s professional basketball. Parker’s ability to influence the game, both through scoring and playmaking, has made her one of the most respected players in the league.
Business Endeavors
While Candace Parker’s basketball career is the foundation of her legacy, she has also built a successful portfolio of business ventures. The most notable of business endeavors is her role as a sports broadcaster. In addition to her playing career, Parker has worked as an analyst for TNT, covering the NBA, and as a studio analyst for NBA TV. Her broadcasting ability is widely praised, bringing a unique perspective to the game with her deep understanding of the sport. Through her media work, she has further cemented her status as a respected figure in the sports world.
As super athletes do, Parker has also partnered with several well-known brands throughout her career. She has had endorsement deals with major companies like Adidas, Gatorade and Toyota. These partnerships have allowed Parker to deepen the bag while capitalizing on her image as a successful, empowered athlete.
In addition to her work as a spokesperson, Parker has launched her own line of signature shoes and apparel. In 2010, Parker became the first woman to have a signature basketball shoe with Adidas. “I said to [Adidas], ‘I don’t want to be a mascot,'” Parker told Fast Company in an interview. This not only showcases her entrepreneurial spirit but also highlights her status as a trailblazer for women in sports. Beyond sports and media, Parker has invested in various startups and philanthropic efforts. She has been an advocate for social change and empowerment. She particularly focuses on the advancement of women’s rights, mental health and youth education.
What is Candace Parker’s Net Worth?
Being a WNBA legend can certainly rack up some cash. Celebrity Net Worth estimates that as of 2025, Parker’s remarkable basketball career has earned her a $5 to $7 million net worth. This includes her annual WNBA salary, which estimates suggest landed around $200,000. In addition, she’s the face behind numerous major endorsement deals, including brands like Nike, Adidas, Gatorade, Carmax and NBA 2K. These endorsements are estimated to bring in a staggering $3 million annually, significantly boosting her net worth. Her brand partnerships and annual off-the-court pay are more than double her total playing salary across her 15 years in the WNBA.
Moreover, Parker’s media career has contributed significantly to her net worth. Her work as an analyst and commentator for the NBA and TNT’s coverage of the NBA playoffs is undoubtedly lucrative. Her insight into the game alongside her charismatic personality has made her a favorite among viewers.
Much of Parker’s net worth is seemingly going into taking care of her children. She and her ex-husband Sheldon Williams share a daughter together, Lailaa Nicole, born May 13, 2009. Additionally, Parker and her wife Petrakova welcomed their first child together on February 11, 2022. They excitedly shared the announcement on Instagram, writing “We are in absolute love and utter appreciation that Goose chose us. Welcome to the fam SON.” Hartt Summitt Petrakov Parker was born on May 21, 2024, completing their “starting lineup.”
Why Does Candace Parker Pay Alimony?
As a result of being the breadwinner in her relationship with ex-husband Sheldon Williams, Parker agreed to pay nearly half a million in alimony. The single payout will forfeit any ongoing spousal support from the former NBA player. The settlement also included a fair split of the profits on their former Encino home. It was sold for $3.75 million. The pair also agreed on joint custody of their 8-year-old daughter, forgoing child support payments.