Sparks sign Parker to extension

Apr 25, 2012 - 7:05 PM Los Angeles, CA (Sports Network) - 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.

"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."

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.