Candace Parker announced on her Instagram Saturday that she will be leaving Chicago and signing with the reigning champion Las Vegas Aces for the 2023 season.

In the post, Parker cites that “home and family” is what helped her in making this decision, specifically her daughter starting high school this upcoming fall.

“Throughout her 13 years, Lailaa has always sacrificed for me; always put me first; and always supported me in what I wanted or needed to do, even when it was tough on her,” Parker wrote.

“I need to be there for my daughter, for my son, for my wife. I can’t be without them for parts of the season when Lailaa is in school and I won’t miss her volleyball games or school dances simply because of distance. Lailaa starts high school in August and I need to be there for her, just as she’s been there for me.”

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Candace Parker (@candaceparker)

General manager and head coach James Wade released a statement saying, “Candace has done so much for our franchise in her time here. I understand her reasons for wanting to be closer with her immediate family. We wish her nothing but the best. She will always be a part of the Sky family. We will celebrate her time here as she deserves.”

In 2022, Parker averaged 13.2 points and 8.6 rebounds a game while shooting 45.8% from the floor. She joined the Chicago Sky in February of 2021 in hopes of bringing a championship back to her hometown and accomplished that in the same season.  

Parker is the first free agent on the Sky to announce their destination for the 2023 season. Courtney Vandersloot, Allie Quigley, Emma Meesseman, and Azurá Stevens are also free agents.