By Elijah James and Ashton Hutchinson
Despite missing star players Angel Reese and Ariel Atkins, the Chicago Sky showed growth and resilience in Friday night’s 73-66 loss to the Golden State Valkyries at Wintrust Arena.
The Sky, now 7-20 on the season, held a late lead and flashed improved chemistry, connecting on several tough shots and making confident plays down the stretch. Four players scored in double figures. Elizabeth Williams led the Sky with 15 points and eight rebounds. Kamilla Cardoso added 14 points and 11 rebounds, and Rachel Banham had 14 points, five rebounds and seven assists.
The Sky’s 15-6 run in the third quarter gave them momentum, but the Valkyries’ 18-4 surge late in the game sealed the win. Veronica Burton led Golden State with 18 points and seven assists.
Despite the loss, Chicago showed better chemistry and proved it can fight through adversity. “I think that we have to continue to use the togetherness that we have been in terms of being connected as a unit,” Coach Marsh said postgame. “And at the same time, there’s a level of professionalism to be a self motivator and a self starter to finish out a season.”
Chicago will look to snap its seven-game losing streak Sunday, Aug. 3, against the Phoenix Mercury at Wintrust Arena.
