Nashville, TN –** The city of Nashville is abuzz with excitement as WNBA legend Candace Parker touched down today, marking a pivotal moment for the Nashville Sky and the future of women’s basketball in Tennessee. The arrival of Parker, a two-time WNBA MVP, Olympic gold medalist, and arguably the greatest all-around player in league history… See more⬇️⬇️Candace Parker Returns to Tennessee, Champions Nashville’s WNBA Expansion Bid
Nashville, TN — The city of Nashville is abuzz with excitement as WNBA legend Candace Parker touched down today, marking a pivotal moment for the future of women’s basketball in Tennessee. Parker, a two-time WNBA MVP, three-time champion, and Olympic gold medalist, is spearheading a high-profile bid to bring a WNBA expansion team to Nashville by 2028.
The proposed franchise, named the Tennessee Summitt, honors the late Pat Summitt, the iconic University of Tennessee coach who mentored Parker during her collegiate career. The bid is led by former Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam and includes a star-studded investor group featuring NFL Hall of Famer Peyton Manning and country music stars Tim McGraw and Faith Hill.
“Tennessee is the DNA of everything women’s basketball stands for,” Parker said in a statement. “I’m excited to be a part of the group working to bring a WNBA team to the state and honor Coach Summitt’s legacy” .
The bid outlines plans for the team to play at Bridgestone Arena, home of the NHL’s Nashville Predators, with a dedicated practice facility that will also serve youth basketball programs. The initiative aims to inspire young athletes and expand opportunities for women in sports across the state.
The WNBA is currently expanding, with new teams slated for Golden State, Portland, and Toronto. Nashville’s bid positions the city as a strong contender for the league’s 16th franchise, with a decision expected in the coming years.
Parker’s involvement not only brings star power but also a deep personal connection to Tennessee’s basketball heritage, making this bid a heartfelt endeavor to continue Summitt’s enduring legacy.
