WNBA legend Candace Parker spoke about her father and gave a heartfelt message to him on Father's Day. Her father, Larry Parker, helped Candace become one of the greatest players in the WNBA while also being her best listener.

The WNBA legend and Indiana Fever star Aliyah Boston hosted their Post Moves podcast on June 21, where they both honored their fathers for helping them in their careers. Candace later shared more about her relationship with her father.

"All of that was amazing, Dad, and I really appreciate everything you've done. You are my sounding board when I am frustrated, now to this day. So, thank you, Dad, for being the best dad and grandfather."

Parker talked about how her dad set the bar for her toughness and work ethic. She also reminisced about the days when she could not talk about the game with her father at the dinner table or anywhere else because of the 24-hour rule that forbade them from discussing it.

She also named her first son, Airr Larry Petrakov Parker, after her father. Airr was born on February 11, 2022.

Larry Parker was a basketball player himself at the University of Iowa. He later worked in the insurance business. He also helped Candace see the game from a different perspective, which benefited her throughout her career.

How Candace Parker Took Learnings From Her Father And Achieved Greatness

Earlier in March 2024, Parker told Dwyane Wade in an interview how her father forced her to ask the why of whatever move she did.

"My dad was the one that forced me to look at the game differently. Breaking down the 'why' of things," she said on Dwyane Wade's YouTube channel.

"He was always big on 'you gotta know the why you’re doing stuff.'"

This advice helped her, as she became a three-time WNBA champion. Candace won the WNBA title in 2016 with the Los Angeles Sparks, in 2021 with the Chicago Sky, and in 2023 with the Las Vegas Aces.

She is also a seven-time All-Star and won the 2008 and 2013 MVP awards as well. She also won the 2016 Finals MVP award. With her career spanning from 2008 to 2023, she averaged 16 points, 8.5 rebounds, and four assists per game.

With all of these achievements, Parker is one of the most decorated WNBA players in the league's history.

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Written by

Dhruv Singh

Edited by

Koushik Biswas