How Old Is Candace Parker? Inside Her Life as a Mum, Wife, and WNBA Icon

At 39 years old, Candace Parker remains one of the most recognisable names in women's basketball. Known for her versatility, leadership and activism, Parker has evolved from a prodigy on the court to a powerful figure in sport, media and family life.

Candace Parker's Age and Early Rise to Stardom

Born on 19 April 1986 in St. Louis, Missouri, Parker showed athletic promise from a young age. Her collegiate years at the University of Tennessee under legendary coach Pat Summitt solidified her status as a future star.

In 2008, she made history by becoming the first WNBA player to win both Rookie of the Year and Most Valuable Player in the same season. Her debut year with the Los Angeles Sparks marked the beginning of a storied career.

A WNBA Career That Defined a Generation

Parker's professional journey is filled with milestones. She is a three-time WNBA Champion, having won titles with three different franchises: the Sparks (2016), the Chicago Sky (2021) and the Las Vegas Aces (2023). She remains the only player in WNBA history to achieve this feat.

Her on-court accolades also include:

• Seven All-Star selections
• Finals MVP in 2016
• Defensive Player of the Year in 2020

In 2025, Parker was honoured with a jersey retirement ceremony by the Los Angeles Sparks, as reported by ESPN, with the Chicago Sky planning a similar tribute later in the year.

Life Beyond the Court: Mum and Wife

Off the court, Candace Parker is a devoted mother and partner. She gave birth to her first child, Lailaa Nicole Williams, in 2009 with former NBA player Shelden Williams. Balancing motherhood and a demanding basketball career, Parker broke new ground as one of the few active athletes to maintain elite performance while parenting.

In 2019, Parker married Anna Petrakova, a former Russian basketball player, although their relationship was not made public until 2021. In 2022, the couple welcomed their son, whose name has been kept private.

Parker's story of finding love and building a family has been featured in major outlets like People, where she spoke candidly about identity, love and parenting. Her openness has inspired many, especially within the LGBTQ+ community, for whom visibility in sport remains a crucial issue.

Leadership After Retirement

Following her retirement in 2024, Parker quickly transitioned into leadership roles off the court. She was appointed President of Adidas Women's Basketball in 2025 and continues to serve as an analyst for TNT and NBA TV.

She is also part of a group led by Peyton Manning seeking to bring a WNBA team to Tennessee, showing her commitment to growing the game.

Parker has been vocal in criticising unfair media narratives, particularly those pitting women athletes against each other, calling for a more inclusive and respectful sports culture.

A Legacy That Goes Beyond Age

At 39, Candace Parker's impact extends far beyond her playing years. She is a trailblazer, mother, wife and advocate, setting new standards for what athletes can achieve both during and after their careers.

Her story is not just about how old she is; it's about how far she has come and how much further she is still pushing the game, the culture and the conversation.