Adidas hired Candace Parker as president of Adidas women’s basketball, effective immediately. She steps into the role following her retirement from the WNBA and marking a sixteen-year partnership with Adidas during her pro basketball career.
Regarded as one of the greatest players in the WNBA, Parker spent 13 seasons playing for the Las Angeles Sparks, two seasons with the Chicago Sky, and one season with the Las Vegas Aces, winning a championship with each team.
Eric Wise, Global GM at Adidas basketball, stated, “We are honored to be a part of Candace’s historic legacy as she transitions from signature athlete to this new leadership role within Adidas Basketball. As a true innovator with a profound passion for the game, we are confident that she is a perfect fit to evolve the Adidas Women’s Basketball business and catalyze a new era of growth and credibility for the brand.”
Parker will collaborate with the brand in her new role as President to “elevate the future of women’s sports and leverage her deep understanding of the game and the needs of female athletes to define a clear and impactful direction, with a focus on access, increased representation and breaking down barriers on a global scale.”
Stepping into this new leadership role is a deeply personal next step in my journey with Adidas,” said Parker. “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 will reportedly play a pivotal role in building on the brand’s women’s roster, including all-stars like Aliyah Boston, Hailey Van Lith, Kahleah Copper, Aaliyah Edwards, Chelsea Gray, Betnijah Laney, Alysha Clark, Nneka Ogwumike, Chiney Ogwumike, and Erica Wheeler, among others. She will also oversee Adidas’ women’s basketball product line.
Image courtesy Adidas
