Candace Parker agrees to a multi-year contract extension with Los Angeles Sparks

WNBA Finals MVP Candace Parker has agreed to a multi-year contract extension with the Los Angeles Sparks. Per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed. The 6-foot-4 forward who was the No. 1 pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft has played her entire career with the Sparks. Parker averages 17.5 points, 8.8 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game.

The Sparks also signed free agent Chelsea Hopkins. The 5-foot-8 point guard is currently playing in Israel for Bnot Maccabi Ramat Gan and is averaging 15.1 ppg, 10.7 rpg and 8.9 apg.

“I am really excited about Candace wanting to extend her contract,” said Penny Toler, Sparks executive vice president and general manager. “It shows her commitment to the organization, the city, and all the fans in LA. She is a huge part of the Sparks success and will be for years to come.”

Parker, a two-time WNBA MVP (2008,2013), became the first WNBA player to win both the MVP and Rookie of the Year award in the same season.

“Candace has proven she is one of the top performers in the WNBA, and that she can also lead a team to a WNBA championship,” said Sparks head coach Brian Agler. “I know she is hungry to get started again in 2017 and beyond. I have really enjoyed coaching Candace and I’m glad that she will be with the team for another season. She is not only a great player and champion, but a great person and mother.”