The Chicago Sky sent a resounding message that said they’re defending champs for a reason after mounting the biggest comeback in WNBA history on Tuesday.
Despite a 41-point first quarter from Las Vegas and a 28-point deficit, Chicago proved they would be fighting champion after taking down the League-leading Aces, 104-95. The Sky came back after outscoring Las Vegas 53-33 in the second half. Courtney Vandersloot led Chicago’s historic effort with a 25-point and eight assist performance.
“No matter what’s going on in a game, we believe we have a chance to win,” Vandersloot said.
The historic game was a fast-paced affair that led to a record-tying nine players finishing the night with at least 15 points.
Vandersloot’s wife and backcourt mate, Allie Quigley (13 points and seven dimes) credited the Aces’ playstyle for the track meet vibe of the game and talked about how it felt as they chipped away at Las Vegas’ lead.
“They’re such a fast-paced team and so are we, there wasn’t time to worry about the next play or even the score. It was just, ‘OK, just keep chipping away, chipping away’” Quigley said.
Chicago’s all-around teamwork helped them secure the dub. The Sky handed out 34 assists, the third most in WNBA history. Among players like Vandersloot and Quigley, Candace Parker had a 17-point and 10 rebounds double-double, and Azurá Stevens followed up with a season-high of 19 points.
