Full Breakdown
Courtney Vandersloot Poised for Return to Chicago Sky After ACL Recovery
6/26/2026, 1:53:27 PM
Return Set for Friday's Season Opener vs Portland Fire
Courtney Vandersloot, five-time All-Star, is slated to debut for the Chicago Sky on Friday against the Portland Fire, ESPN reports. The 37-year-old point guard, listed as questionable Thursday, will be cleared to play if no setback occurs after missing the 2025 season with a torn right ACL.
Background: Injury, Recovery, and Re-signing
Vandersloot tore her right ACL in June 2025, ending a 12-year stint with the Sky that began after she was selected No. 3 overall in the 2011 draft. She played two seasons with the New York Liberty, winning her second career championship in 2024 after having won her first title with Chicago in 2021. The Sky re-signed her before the 2025 season and again in the latest offseason, despite her limited post-injury participation—only seven games.
Roster Context
Vandersloot rejoins a backcourt anchored by Skylar Diggins and Natasha Cloud. The roster also includes forward Rickea Jackson, sidelined by an ACL tear, and newcomers Azura Stevens, DiJonai Carrington, Jacy Sheldon, and Gabriela Jaquez.
Statistical Snapshot
Vandersloot ranks second all-time in WNBA assists (2,886), behind Sue Bird and nearly 1,000 ahead of active player Chelsea Gray. She shoots 33.5 % from three-point range. Chicago currently ranks No. 11 in assists per game (19.4) and is second-worst in league three-point shooting. The Sky sit 5-12 after an opening 3-1 start, having broken a six-game skid with a 101-78 win over the Fire.
Official Statements & Team Outlook
Vandersloot told ESPN she is “excited and thankful” to return, citing confidence in the Sky’s medical staff. Team officials said her playmaking will complement Diggins and Cloud, potentially boosting assists and three-point efficiency.
Verbatim Quote
> "Words can't express how excited and thankful I am to return to the floor. It's been a long and challenging journey back, but I have full trust in our medical staff and the work we've put in to make this possible. I'm thrilled to be able to play alongside my amazing and supportive teammates." — Courtney Vandersloot, Point Guard, Chicago Sky
Implications for Chicago Sky's Season
Vandersloot’s veteran passing addresses the Sky’s assist deficit, while her 33.5 % three-point shooting could improve a unit that ranks near the bottom in that category. The team hopes her return will boost both playmaking and shooting, helping reverse the current losing trend.
What's Next
The Sky will debut Vandersloot Friday versus Portland. The game marks her first appearance since her ACL injury.
