The Chicago Sky did not have to wait long for another shot at the WNBA-leading New York Liberty.
Looking to rebound from Thursday’s loss to the Liberty, the host Sky will try to split the season series with a victory Saturday.
Chicago (9-13) has had moments of competitiveness against the mighty Liberty (19-4) this season. The Sky earned an impressive 90-81 win at New York on May 23, then lost 88-75 to the Liberty at home on June 4 and couldn’t hold a 13-point first-half lead and succumbed to a 14-1 run by New York during this week’s 91-76 road loss.
“We have a quick turnaround and get to see them on our home court,” said Chicago’s Isabelle Harrison, who had 12 points and 12 rebounds Thursday.
“It’s really important to have a short-term memory.”
While the Sky remain inconsistent, though currently in playoff position, Angel Reese continues to make her case for WNBA Rookie of the Year. With 10 points and 10 rebounds Thursday, Reese extended her league-record run to 15 consecutive double-doubles.
Reese has averaged 15.3 points and 13.2 boards during that streak. However, she was 5-for-17 shooting Thursday, and found things difficult against New York’s star inside duo of Breanna Stewart (19 points) and Jonquel Jones (18 points, 13 rebounds and four blocks).
“Jonquel Jones and Breanna Stewart. I think they just anchor us,” said Liberty coach Sandy Brondello, whose team has won seven of its past eight games.
“We do a really good job of protecting the rim.”
Another New York star, Sabrina Ionescu, continues to sparkle after scoring a team-high 21 points and making four of New York’s 13 3-pointers Thursday. She has averaged 21.7 points over her past nine games, including the Commissioner’s Cup final, and 21.3 in three games versus Chicago this season.
The Sky’s Chennedy Carter also has been on a torrid offensive pace. With 22 points Thursday, she has averaged 21.6 in her last 10 contests.
Chicago is just 4-7 at home this season.
–Field Level Media