There are many who claim GOAT, but there is only one ACE. The City of Chicago officially celebrates the extraordinary life achievements of basketball icon Candace Parker with a proclamation marking today, September 16, as “Candace Parker Day.” After more than a decade of being one of the most dominant forces in basketball, we and Candace Parker are launching the Candace Parker Collection. Available in inclusive sizing, the collection is a testament to sport belonging to everyone, and it represents both brands’ commitment to the expansion of women’s basketball programs that empower trailblazers like Parker.
To commemorate Parker for her exemplary contributions both on and off the court, Chicago’s Mayor Lori Lightfoot presented the Windy City native with a high honor from the city proclaiming September 16 as “Candace Parker Day.” Parker was bestowed this honor during the unveiling of her collection in Chicago.
“Candace Parker is the real MVP! We are thrilled for her extraordinary achievements and the launch of her new collection,” said Kate Ridley, SVP of Brand at adidas. “In our partnership with DICK’S Sporting Goods, we aim to further the ambitions of role models like Candace to be mentors for girls by demonstrating that anything is possible, while empowering the next groundbreaking players through the ongoing expansion of our women’s basketball programs.”
The Candace Parker Collection debuts with high-performance apparel and footwear, leading with a custom Exhibit (A)ce Low silhouette. The sneaker arrives in three dynamic colorways that represent key chapters in Parker’s life, including tributes to her late college coach, as well as her daughter, who represents the next generation of culture-shifters.
“I’m beyond excited to launch the Candace Parker Collection with my long-time partner, adidas,” said Parker. “This collection represents so many important moments in my career and our hope is that it will reach and inspire the next generation of passionate athletes. It is amazing to see the progress female athletes have made over the last 20 years and this moment is an important step in the expansion of women’s basketball.”
Blending court-style with high-tech innovations and key design insights from Parker, the custom Exhibit (A)ce features a ventilated upper reinforced with a Lightstrike midsole geared for responsive movement and the ultimate versatility for the all-around player. Donning Parker’s signature “Ace” logo, the apparel collection includes hoodies, tees, tanks, shorts, and socks. Arriving with a series of technical fit and performance features, the collection also sees the integration of sustainable and recycled materials.
“Candace Parker exemplifies what it means to be the best,” said Carrie Guffey, Senior Vice President, Merchandising, DICK’S Sporting Goods. “We join the entire city of Chicago in congratulating her on all of her achievements. We are proud to be the exclusive retail partner for the Candace Parker Collection and to have product specifically designed for female athletes. We know that it will not only help female athletes perform their best, but also will inspire young athletes to pick up – and stay with – the game.”
CANDACE PARKER “IMPOSSIBLE IS NOTHING” BRAND FILM
Coinciding with the tip-off of the Candace Parker Collection, adidas launches this season’s global campaign film series, “Impossible Is Nothing,” paying homage to Parker’s legacy. Female athletes aren’t just having a moment, they’ve always been, but the sport can no longer evolve without women leading the charge. “Impossible Is Nothing” is our attitude toward sport, which is about seeing possibilities, and perceiving the world not as it is, but as it can be.
https://youtu.be/9fl3c4GH8rI
Featuring Patrick Mahomes, Fernando Tatis Jr., Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Derrick Rose, members of Parker’s family and many others, the film celebrates Parker’s historical journey to becoming the face of women’s basketball, from her record dunk to many awards, championships, and medals. All of which are intertwined with her accomplishments as a daughter, hooper, teammate and leader.
The Candace Parker Collection will be available for purchase beginning September 23, in stores and online at both adidas and DICK’S Sporting Goods.
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