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Analysts say Parker could top $10 million in annual endorsements relatively quickly via such areas as food, tech and health & beauty.

Parker’s initial deals put her in the $3-5 million range. The WNBA will include her in its 2008 brand campaign, and she will be eligible for what will now be called the Hanns-G “Go Beyond” rookie of the month, rookie of the year and all-rookie team honors. Electronics firm Hannspree has been an NBA and WNBA partner since 2005. The Sparks will feature Parker with Lisa Leslie, one of the league’s most marketable stars, who did not play last season when she gave birth to her first child. The effort, referring to Leslie and Parker, respectively, is tagged: “She’s back! She’s here!” Both women are also members of the 2008 U.S. Olympic women’s basketball team

Parker joins adidas’ marketing roster of NBA stars, which includes Kevin Garnett, Tracy McGrady and Dwight Howard. A signature shoe will hit next season; this year she will wear designs including “Sparks” and “Olympics.” Adidas also is looking to align her with its urban ProMama line (footwear, clothing, jewelry).

The $10 million annual figure is significant, as only four women athletes have hit that plateau: Sharapova, Michelle Wie and both Williams sisters. Meanwhile, Tiger Woods clears $110 million in annual endorsements, and the bevy of male athletes above $10 million includes LeBron James, Kobe Bryant, David Beckham, Dale Earnhardt Jr., Peyton Manning and Dwyane Wade.

“Women athlete sponsorship and endorsement opportunities are at an all-time high,” said Robert Tuchman, president, TSE Sports & Entertainment, New York. “Women in every sport are garnering marketing opportunities. With the Olympics this summer you will see an increase in the number of female brand endorsers.”

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