Chicago Sky’s losing streak reached six games after a 103-87 loss to the Washington Mystics on Tuesday, despite standout efforts from Kamilla Cardoso and Angel Reese. Cardoso tallied 21 points on 8-of-16 shooting and grabbed 10 rebounds, while Reese made her return from injury impressive with 22 points and 13 rebounds. Together, they became the first teammates in franchise history to both post at least 20 points and 10 rebounds in a single game, marking a significant individual milestone amid team struggles.
However, those historic numbers were overshadowed by the Washington Mystics’ dynamic rookie tandem of Kiki Iriafen, who scored 22 points, and Sonia Citron, who led all scorers with 28 points, ensuring the Mystics maintained control of the game.
Coach Marsh Highlights Adjustments in Cardoso’s Offensive Role
Following the loss, Chicago Sky head coach Tyler Marsh addressed the tactical changes made regarding Kamilla Cardoso’s role. He noted that previously, simply feeding the ball to the 6-foot-7 center for easy baskets was no longer effective, prompting a strategy shift to create more diverse offensive opportunities for her. Marsh emphasized that the team executed the plan well offensively, managing to provide Cardoso with quality looks in the paint.
The return of Angel Reese was also seen as a positive contributor to offensive flow, especially through enhanced big-to-big passes. Marsh expressed his commitment to continuing this approach by ensuring Cardoso remains a focal point on offense moving forward.
Marsh said his game plan for Cardoso was “executed pretty well offensively”
—Tyler Marsh, Chicago Sky Head Coach
He was proud that they “were able to get (Cardoso) some good looks”
—Tyler Marsh, Chicago Sky Head Coach
The return of Reese helped the flow of the offense, including big-to-big passing
—Tyler Marsh, Chicago Sky Head Coach
Moving forward, his goal is “to continue getting (Cardoso) touches.”
—Tyler Marsh, Chicago Sky Head Coach
Defensive Weaknesses Overshadow Offensive Progress
Despite the improvements on offense, Chicago’s defense struggled significantly, ultimately costing them the game. Marsh pointed out the team‘s failure to protect the paint against Washington’s aggressive inside game as the main issue. The Mystics outscored the Sky 52-40 in the paint, a crucial factor in the defeat.
(Washington) is a team that thrives on the paint and we didn’t do a good job protecting the paint today,
—Tyler Marsh, Chicago Sky Head Coach
That was the difference in the game.
—Tyler Marsh, Chicago Sky Head Coach
The defensive lapses reflect broader inconsistencies for Chicago, whose injury-plagued young roster has contributed to their poor record and mounting losses this season. With their current 7-19 standing, they rank second-worst in the WNBA, putting pressure on the team to shore up both offense and defense as they look to end their slide.
Implications for Chicago Sky’s Season Outlook
The combination of Cardoso’s evolving offensive role and Reese’s return offers hope for Chicago Sky, yet their continuing defensive vulnerabilities threaten to derail momentum. The team’s inability to balance defensive intensity with offensive creativity has been a key factor in the extended losing streak. Going forward, the Sky must address these defensive shortcomings while capitalizing on the historic potential of their big players to reverse their fortunes in the remainder of the season.