Candace Parker’s Arrival in Nashville: A New Era Dawns for the Sky’s as WNBA Legend Brings Unmatched Skill, Experience, and Star Power to Music City

Candace Parker’s Arrival in Nashville: A New Era Dawns for the Sky’s as WNBA Legend Brings Unmatched Skill, Experience, and Star Power to Music City………..

In a landmark move for women’s sports, WNBA legend Candace Parker has joined a star-studded ownership group aiming to bring a new WNBA franchise to Nashville. The proposed team, named the Tennessee Summitt, honors the late Pat Summitt, Parker’s former coach at the University of Tennessee and a towering figure in women’s basketball. ([Essence][1])

The initiative is led by former Tennessee Governor Bill Haslam and his wife, Crissy, and includes notable figures such as NFL Hall of Famer Peyton Manning and country music stars Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. The group submitted its bid to the WNBA in January 2025, with plans for the team to begin play in 2028 at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. ([Just Women’s Sports][2], [NBC Sports][3])

Parker, a two-time WNBA MVP and three-time champion, expressed deep personal motivation for the project. “Tennessee is the DNA of everything women’s basketball stands for,” she stated. “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.” ([ESPN.com][4], [NBC Sports][3])

The proposed franchise aims to build a dedicated practice facility that will also serve as a hub for youth basketball, reflecting a commitment to community engagement and development. This aligns with the group’s vision of the team serving as a beacon for girls and women across Tennessee. ([Just Women’s Sports][2], [ESPN.com][4])

As the WNBA plans to expand to 16 teams by 2028, Nashville’s bid positions the city as a strong contender, joining other hopefuls like Cleveland and Detroit. The inclusion of high-profile investors and the homage to Pat Summitt’s legacy add significant weight to Nashville’s proposal. ([AP News][5], [Swish Appeal][6])

Parker’s involvement marks a significant transition from her illustrious playing career to a leadership role in shaping the future of the sport. Her return to Tennessee, where she led the Lady Vols to two national championships, symbolizes a full-circle moment and a renewed commitment to advancing women’s basketball in the state.

The potential establishment of the Tennessee Summitt represents more than just a new team; it signifies a celebration of Tennessee’s rich basketball heritage and a bold step forward in promoting women’s sports.([Just Women’s Sports][2])

As the WNBA evaluates expansion bids, the basketball community eagerly awaits the league’s decision, hopeful that Nashville will soon become home to its own WNBA franchise, continuing the legacy of excellence that Pat Summitt and Candace Parker embody.([Essence]