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Few players impacted basketball — women’s basketball especially, but the game overall — like Candace Parker. Which made her an easy call for the Hall of Fame. Congrats to Class of 2026 @Hoophall inductee, Candace Parker! pic.twitter.com/ZFxvP5KfyX — NBA (@NBA) August 16, 2026 Parker was a two-time NCAA national champion at Tennessee, was drafted No. 1 in 2008, and became the only player in WNBA history to be named Rookie of the Year and MVP in the same season. She went on to be a three-time WNBA champion and two-time league MVP (2008, 2013). Parker also is a two-time Olympic gold medalist (2008, 2012). In her induction speech, Parker talked about how her journey started with her father. The man that planted the seed 🤝 Candace Parker shares the story on how her dad positioned her at point guard, forever changing the game. 2026 Naismith Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony | @NBATV pic.twitter.com/sTrErrbPyZ Parker also gave a big shout-out to Allen Iverson. "In '97, my brother got drafted and traded on Draft night to the Sixers." -throws basketball to Allen Iverson- "And this guy right here became his teammate... the dominance and the impact he has is still felt today... I am sorry I am blown away by you having a suit that has… pic.twitter.com/5PiLZ2t03K She also talked about being part of the fabric of the game — learning lessons from Hall of Famer Lisa Leslie and passing them on to future Hall of Famer A’Ja Wilson. Whether Candace was a rookie or a vet, the momentum was always there 🔥 Candace Parker speaks on the impact of the early days with Lisa Leslie, and passing the torch to A'ja Wilson. 2026 Naismith Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony | @NBATV pic.twitter.com/2rDaxn2pKD