Sparks sign Parker to extension
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The Los Angeles Sparks have signed forward Candace Parker to a contract extension.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
Parker, the WNBA's top rookie and MVP in 2008, appeared in just 17 games last season because of a knee injury and averaged 18.5 points with 8.6 rebounds and 2.8 assists.
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"Candace is one of those players in the league that you want to build your team with," said Sparks general manager Penny Toler in a statement. "Candace is healthy and will be a critical piece for our championship run this season. We have a loaded team and we expect to win now."
Parker also sat out most of the 2010 season because of a dislocated shoulder. She has averaged 17.2 points with 9.5 rebounds and 2.9 assists in 85 games, all but two as a starter.
"I am excited to continue to be a member of the Los Angeles Sparks," Parker said. "The Sparks have always been committed to success and making the right moves to build upon their rich tradition in the WNBA."
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Parker was the first player to win both the MVP and Rookie of the Year in the same season during her first campaign. She was also a member of the U.S. team that won gold at the 2008 Olympics.