Less than two weeks into her WNBA retirement, Candace Parker is already taking on a new responsibility.
The former All-Star was named president of Adidas women’s basketball on Wednesday, moving into the position after being affiliated with the company for more than a decade.
“Stepping into this new leadership role is a deeply personal next step in my journey with Adidas,” Parker said in a statement. “From high school to college to playing pro to now, this appointment by Adidas symbolizes a shared commitment to making impactful change and setting new benchmarks for the future of women’s sports. It’s not just about products; it’s about fostering a movement focused on innovation, representation and access.”
Parker wore Adidas sneakers as a player in high school, at the University of Tennessee and during her 16 seasons in the WNBA. In 2010, Parker was the first woman to receive a signature shoe with Adidas, the ACE Commander. She later created three collections with the brand and led a mentorship program for the company’s NIL-sponsored college athletes.
As part of her new role with the company, Adidas said, Parker will “collaborate with the brand to create a powerful platform aimed at influencing and elevating the future of women’s sports.” She will play a…