The (Chicago) Sky's the Limit!

Russ: I want to first thank our Chicago Sky for bringing the WNBA Championship to Chicago this past season. As tough as it is to repeat, I believe we’re up for the challenge of again getting it done.

Donald: Yes, let’s do it again. I’ll miss Diamond DeShields, who was sent to Phoenix Mercury in a sign-and-trade deal. She didn’t want to come off the bench; she wanted to regain her starter role, and she wasn’t going to get that with the Sky—at least not initially: she’d have to work hard for it…and still no guarantee. Her rebounding and shotblocking—her defense— we’ll miss tremendously.

Patrick: I know, right. Her defense was good in that it allowed Candace Parker and Kahleah Copper to focus just a bit more on the offensive side, so with her gone, it’ll depend on if we’re able to get someone else in here to do some of the things she did for us, or we, simply, out-score everyone.

Russ: Candace will be up for it, as she’s been around championships for some time now. That’ll definitely make a repeat run easier.

John: I agree for the most part. One thing, though, is everyone on the team— other than perhaps Candace Parker—will have to manage the pressure and competition. Every team wants to topple the champion. The Chicago Sky are the champions until a new one is crowned. The Connecticut Sun, the Las Vegas Aces, the Seattle Storm— these are a few of the teams who will give us a run for our money… and, mind y’all, the Sky were barely a .500 team during the regular season last year, so these teams—on paper—have us trumped.

Donald: On paper it is right. However, I think Candace is a definite asset for us. Kahleah Copper as Candace’s very able sidekick / soldier is awesome. Kahleah’s the real deal. During the Finals series, she averaged 17 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.3 steals. She shot 50-percent from the field and 36.4-percent from 3-point land—

Patrick: And only 27-years old. And MVP of last season’s WNBA Finals.

Russ: Let’s remember we have other pieces already in place. Allie Quigley, 13 years of experience; Courtney Vandersloot, 11 years; Candace Parker with 14 years under her belt—this experience will only help the team. I believe the Sky—as long as we stay healthy—are going to have a good season. And I can’t wait to get to a game and cheer them on as if I were front row at the Finals on the winning night. I’ll honor them this entire season.

John: Before I forget, team, think about the fact that there are free agents out here. Two on my mind are on the same team: the Seattle Storm. Breanna Stewart and Jewell Lloyd. From what I see, the Storm will not be able to keep them both, even though both are signed. Economics could hit the situation at some point, or just a matter of two to maintain the vibe.

Patrick: Don’t the two of them have a relationship? They played together prior to the WNBA, were both drafted no. 1—in consecutive years—and been on the same team since forever.

John: True. But the NBA’s a business, so no telling what could happen. However, it can be done, I would love to get Lloyd here.

Donald: Lloyd does look good. However, even with someone of her stature, we may need a lil’ bit more, but I’m confident we have what it takes. Basically, people, the Sky’s the limit.

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