
In a stunning upset, the Chicago Sky defeated the New York Liberty 91-85 at Barclays Center on August 21, 2025, led by stellar performances from Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso. Reese, returning from a back injury, delivered a double-double with 19 points and 15 rebounds, showcasing her relentless energy and rebounding prowess. Cardoso complemented her with a career-high 27 points and 10 rebounds, dominating the paint and fueling a crucial fourth-quarter surge. The Sky, despite a challenging 8-26 season, outscored the Liberty 30-17 in the final period, overcoming a second-placed New York team missing key players like Breanna Stewart. Chicago’s bench, including Rachel Banham’s sharpshooting, added depth, while the Liberty’s Sabrina Ionescu managed 17 points but couldn’t close the gap. This victory marked a rare bright spot for the rebuilding Sky, who capitalized on their young talent and fastbreak opportunities, finishing with 24 fastbreak points. Reese’s return sparked the team, with fans on X noting her impact on attendance and energy. The win signals Chicago’s potential, with Reese and Cardoso proving they can compete with the WNBA’s elite, offering hope for a brighter 2026.