Kamilla Cardoso, fresh off a career-best game on Tuesday where she scored 27 points in the Chicago Sky’s 97-86 victory over the LA Sparks, will not be playing in Friday’s matchup against the Golden State Valkyries. The game will take place at the Chase Center, but Cardoso’s absence is not due to injury.

According to the latest injury report from the Sky, Cardoso has been ruled out as she has been granted leave to participate in the 2025 FIBA Women’s AmeriCup, representing Brazil. This international tournament is scheduled to take place in Santiago, Chile, leading to her unavailability for several upcoming games.

Details on Cardoso’s Absence and International Duty

Cardoso is expected to miss at least three games from June 28 to July 6, aligning with Brazil’s schedule in the AmeriCup tournament. If Brazil’s run in the competition ends earlier than anticipated, Cardoso could rejoin the Sky sooner than planned. The South Carolina product’s time away from the team is focused entirely on her national team commitments.

Throughout the season, Cardoso’s performance with the Sky has been marked by inconsistency, fluctuating between dominant individual showings like her recent 27-point effort and periods of limited court time. Despite this, she averages 12.7 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game, reflecting her significant role when on the floor.

How the Chicago Sky Plans to Adjust Without Cardoso

With Cardoso sidelined, the Sky are expected to rely more heavily on Elizabeth Williams and Michaela Onyenwere to fill the gap in the lineup. Additionally, Angel Reese, who had a standout performance in the recent victory over the Sparks, is projected to take on an increased offensive role.

Reese delivered an impressive stat line of 18 points, 17 rebounds, six assists, and four steals, shooting efficiently from both the field and free-throw line. Her effort helped the Sky end a three-game losing streak, underscoring her growing importance to the team’s success in Cardoso’s absence.

Cardoso Highlights Teammates’ Role in Her Career Night

After her career-high 27 points, Kamilla Cardoso gave credit to her teammates for their role in her success during the win against the Sparks. She expressed appreciation for their passing and support, emphasizing the collaborative nature of her breakout game.

“I think my teammates did a great job of finding me today when I was open,” Cardoso said. —Kamilla Cardoso, Chicago Sky Player

Selected as the third overall pick in last year’s WNBA draft, Cardoso has sometimes been overshadowed by Angel Reese, the seventh pick who has drawn notable attention for her performances. Cardoso’s rookie season was also interrupted by a preseason shoulder injury, which affected her early development. Nevertheless, she and Reese have developed chemistry, with Reese actively looking to set up Cardoso in the paint.

Impact and Outlook for the Chicago Sky

Kamilla Cardoso’s absence leaves an immediate gap for the Chicago Sky, but the team has capable players ready to step up. Cardoso’s international experience could bring additional growth to her game, which bodes well for the Sky’s prospects upon her return. Meanwhile, the team will depend on veterans and rising stars to maintain momentum as they face the Golden State Valkyries and upcoming opponents.

The next week will test Chicago’s depth and cohesion, making the team’s adjustments during this stretch critical for their season trajectory.