LA Sparks re-sign 2-time WNBA MVP Candace Parker

LOS ANGELES (AP) Two-time WNBA MVP Candace Parker is staying with the Los Angeles Sparks. The team said Thursday it has re-signed Parker, who has played for

LOS ANGELES (AP) Two-time WNBA MVP Candace Parker is staying with the Los Angeles Sparks.

The team said Thursday it has re-signed Parker, who has played for the Sparks during her entire eight-year pro career. She has career averages of 17.8 points, 9.1 rebounds and 3.6 assists.

Last season, Parker missed the first 17 games to rest and then averaged 19.4 points and 10.1 rebounds in her final 16 games.

Parker, who turns 30 in April, became the first WNBA player to win both MVP and rookie of the year in the same season in 2008, when she was the league's No. 1 overall draft pick. The forward won Olympic gold medals for the U.S. in 2008 and 2012.

The Sparks open the season in May.