May 8th 2024.
Candace Parker, a renowned figure in the world of basketball, has recently been named the first president of Adidas women's basketball division. This decision comes as no surprise, as Parker has had a strong and longstanding relationship with the brand.
Eric Wise, global general manager of Adidas basketball, expressed his excitement about this historic appointment in a press release on May 8. He stated, "We are honored to have Candace as the president of Adidas Basketball. Her transition from signature athlete to this leadership role is a major milestone for us." Wise also praised Parker for her innovative spirit and unwavering passion for the game, making her the perfect fit to drive growth and credibility for the brand.
Parker has made a name for herself in the industry, becoming the first woman to receive a signature shoe with Adidas in 2010 - the ACE Commander sneaker. Now, she is set to play a crucial role in Adidas' commitment to investing in women's sports, particularly in the realm of women's basketball, according to Sports Illustrated. With her new position, Parker will not only influence the development of new product lines, but also expand Adidas' roster of women's basketball athletes. This list currently includes notable names such as Aliyah Boston, Hailey Van Lith, Kahleah Copper, and many more.
In a statement released by Adidas, Parker shared her excitement about taking on this new leadership role. She said, "This appointment is a significant step in my journey with Adidas. From my high school and college days to playing professionally and now, it symbolizes our shared commitment to bring about meaningful change and set new standards for women's sports. It's not just about products, it's about creating a movement that focuses on innovation, representation, and access."
Parker's partnership with Adidas began in 2008 when she first signed with the brand in her debut season in the WNBA. Since then, she has been the face of multiple collections and has mentored several collegiate athletes under Adidas' NIL partnerships. BLACK ENTERPRISE also covered the launch of Adidas' first-ever student-athlete roster, which was led by Parker and set to debut in 2022.
Her new role as president is effective immediately, following her retirement announcement from the WNBA in April. After a remarkable 16-season career, Parker took to Instagram to share the news with her followers, stating, "It's time." With this new chapter in her journey, it's clear that Parker will continue to make a significant impact in the world of basketball, both on and off the court.
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