Courtney Vandersloot is celebrating the upcoming retirement of Candace Parker’s No. 3 jersey by embracing her responsibilities as a mentor to Chicago Sky’s young talent. The jersey retirement is scheduled for August 25, highlighting Parker’s significant contributions to the WNBA and her influence as a Chicago sports icon.
Vandersloot expressed her excitement, stating, “It was awesome to see. She’s obviously a Chicago sports icon, a WNBA icon, and a legend. She’s done so much for the game—she deserves it.” Parker’s illustrious career includes two WNBA MVP awards, a Finals MVP title, and several championship wins with teams including the Los Angeles Sparks and the Chicago Sky, where she played a pivotal role in securing the franchise’s first WNBA championship in 2021.
As Vandersloot is in her 15th season with the Sky, she achieved a personal milestone by becoming the franchise’s all-time leading scorer during a recent game against the Dallas Wings. Reflecting on the milestone, she acknowledged the significance of passing Allie Quigley for the record and expressed gratitude for the team’s support.
The development of the younger players, such as Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, is a focal point for Vandersloot. She has been praised by her teammates for her leadership and ability to guide them through their early careers, with Reese noting, “She’s one of the best point guards in league history,” and Cardoso emphasizing Vandersloot’s work ethic and motivational presence.
With Parker’s jersey retirement on the horizon, Vandersloot continues to uphold the legacy of the Sky while nurturing the next generation of players, showcasing a commitment to both honoring the team’s past and shaping its future. The team’s progression is filled with promise as they move forward under Vandersloot’s mentorship.