UNCASVILLE, Conn. — Angel Reese achieved her first career triple-double, sparking the Chicago Sky to a commanding 78-66 victory against the Connecticut Sun on Sunday. Reese’s standout game highlighted the team’s collective effort, with the Sky bench led by Hailey Van Lith scoring a career-high 16 points.
Strong Team Effort and Bench Depth Propel Chicago
Reese delivered 11 points, 13 rebounds, and a remarkable 11 assists, which doubled her previous best in that category. Chicago showcased their depth by placing five players in double digits, and their bench outperformed Connecticut’s reserves by an impressive margin of 36 to 2 during the Commissioner’s Cup matchup. Kia Nurse contributed 11 points on flawless shooting, including three three-pointers, while Kamilla Cardoso and Ariel Atkins each added 10 points. Additionally, Rachel Banham, coming off the bench, celebrated a milestone by hitting her 300th career three-pointer.
Connecticut Sun’s Leading Scorers Struggle to Keep Pace
The Sun were led by Marina Mabrey’s 22 points, including five three-pointers, but still fell short. Tina Charles added 19 points, and Jacy Sheldon contributed 12. Despite both teams shooting 40 percent and making six three-pointers in the first half, Chicago capitalized on perfect free throw shooting, converting all eight attempts to carry a narrow 38-36 halftime lead. Mabrey was the only Sun player to score double digits in the opening half, registering 16 points.
Chicago Maintains Edge Despite Connecticut’s Mid-Game Push
Early in the second half, Mabrey’s three-pointer and two free throws by Charles gave Connecticut a 47-44 advantage. However, the Sky quickly responded as Michaela Onyenwere and Reese completed three-point plays, pushing Chicago ahead 51-48. The Sky maintained this momentum into the final quarter, holding a 59-54 lead.
Upcoming Matchups for Both Teams
Looking ahead, Chicago will return home to face Washington, while Connecticut travels to Indiana on Tuesday, each seeking to improve their records and build on this game’s lessons.