Chicago Sky Fall to Las Vegas Aces Despite Strong Start

The Chicago Sky hosted the Las Vegas Aces on Thursday night in a highly anticipated matchup that lived up to its billing. Despite a strong opening quarter that saw the Sky take an early lead, the game ultimately ended in disappointment for the home team, who fell 95-83. The contest featured standout performances, including a historic effort from rookie Angel Reese, but also highlighted areas for improvement as the Sky struggled to maintain their momentum against a relentless Aces squad.

Early Lead Slips Away

The Chicago Sky faced off against the Las Vegas Aces in an intense home game on Thursday night, ultimately falling 95-83 despite a promising start. The Sky began the game on a high note, taking a 25-21 lead at the end of the first quarter, thanks to Marina Mabrey's stellar performance. Mabrey scored 13 points in the opening quarter, hitting all five of her shots and setting the pace for Chicago.

Aces Take Control in the Second Quarter

However, the momentum shifted dramatically in the second quarter. The Aces, led by A'ja Wilson, outscored the Sky 25-14. Wilson was dominant, scoring 15 points in the first quarter and adding to her tally throughout the game. Jackie Young, who was scoreless in the first quarter, came alive with eight points in the second, helping the Aces secure a 46-39 lead at halftime. Chicago's shooting percentage dropped from 58% in the first quarter to 29% in the second, contributing to their halftime deficit.

Third Quarter Battle

The Sky quickly bounced back at the start of the second half, tying the game with seven straight points, including five from Mabrey. Kamilla Cardoso's short-range shot gave Chicago a brief 61-60 lead. However, the Aces responded with a strong finish to the quarter, turning a narrow lead into a 72-63 advantage heading into the final period.

Aces' Late Surge Seals the Game

In the fourth quarter, Kelsey Plum took over, scoring the first seven points to extend the Aces' lead to 79-63. Despite a valiant effort from Angel Reese, who scored nine points in the final quarter, the Sky couldn't close the gap. Reese's performance was notable as she recorded her ninth-straight double-double, tying Candace Parker for the WNBA's longest streak of double-doubles in a season.

Key Performances

A'ja Wilson led all scorers with 31 points, marking her 18th career 30-point game and her 12th game this season with at least 25 points. Jackie Young contributed 22 points, while Kelsey Plum added 21 points, including 16 in the fourth quarter. Olympian Chelsea Gray had a solid all-around game with eight points, six rebounds, and five assists, while Kiah Stokes contributed significantly on defense with six blocks.

For the Sky, Marina Mabrey led the team with 21 points, but only managed eight points after the first quarter. Chennedy Carter added 20 points, and Angel Reese had 18 points and 11 rebounds. Courtney Williams and Kamilla Cardoso also contributed with key plays, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Aces' offensive firepower and defensive resilience.

The Minnesota Lynx Await

Following this tough loss, the Chicago Sky will aim to regroup as they prepare for their next home game against the Minnesota Lynx on June 30th at 2 pm CT. With a record of 6-10, the Sky will look to bounce back and build momentum as they continue their WNBA campaign.