The Chicago Sky began their 2026 WNBA campaign with an impressive 98-83 victory over the expansion Portland Fire at the Moda Center on Saturday night. Chicago delivered a strong performance on both ends of the court, using its rebounding advantage, inside scoring and experienced leadership to secure an early-season win.
Kamilla Cardoso and Skylar Diggins led the way, making history by becoming the first pair of teammates in WNBA history to each record a 20-point double-double in a season opener. Their performances helped Chicago start the season with confidence and gave fans an early look at the team’s new direction.
Cardoso and Diggins Lead Chicago’s Scoring Charge
Chicago’s offensive effort was led by Cardoso and Diggins, who combined for 43 points. Both players made an immediate impact, giving the Sky a reliable scoring presence while helping the team maintain control throughout the contest.
The team also showed its strength in the paint, where Cardoso’s size and rebounding helped create additional scoring opportunities. Diggins managed the pace of the game, bringing experience and composure to Chicago’s offence.
Head coach Tyler Marsh highlighted the understanding between the team’s perimeter players and interior scorers. He also praised Cardoso’s screening ability, explaining how her adjustments in positioning and timing created openings and made it harder for Portland to organise its defence.
Chicago’s performance offered an early indication of how the team intends to play this season, combining physical defence, effective ball movement and pressure on the boards.
A Historic Night for Chicago’s New Partnership
The victory came shortly after the Sky made several notable roster decisions, including waiving Hailey Van Lith and multiple players selected in the 2025 draft. Against that backdrop, Diggins and Cardoso gave Chicago a promising start to its new campaign.
The pair’s performances also added to the franchise’s history. Their double-doubles marked only the third time in Chicago Sky history that multiple players had recorded at least 20 points and 10 rebounds in the same game.
Cardoso finished with 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Diggins contributed 21 points and 11 rebounds. Their combined production helped Chicago establish control and maintain its advantage over Portland.
The Sky also began the season with a 1-0 record for the first time in three years. With contributions from across the starting line-up, the team demonstrated the value of a balanced attack and stronger work on the glass.
Meet the Players Driving Chicago’s New Direction
Chicago’s opening-night performance featured several important contributions beyond its two leading scorers. The team’s revamped line-up showed encouraging signs of chemistry, with experienced players and younger talent contributing in different ways.
Skylar Diggins Brings Experience and Control
Veteran guard Skylar Diggins played a central role in Chicago’s opening victory. The seven-time WNBA All-Star recorded 21 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists, delivering an all-round performance that highlighted her value to the team.
Her influence extended beyond scoring. Diggins helped organise the offence, controlled the tempo and brought a competitive edge to the court. Her experience also gave Chicago a steady presence during key stretches of the game.
With all five starters reaching double figures, the Sky showed signs of a connected offensive unit. Diggins’ leadership and decision-making were important parts of that effort.
Kamilla Cardoso Strengthens the Paint
Kamilla Cardoso has worked her way towards becoming a central figure in Chicago’s front court. Born in Montes Claros, Brazil, she moved to the United States at the age of 15 to pursue basketball.
Her development continued through high school in Tennessee and later at the University of South Carolina, where she played under head coach Dawn Staley. Cardoso became a two-time national champion and earned Most Outstanding Player honours at the 2024 Final Four before Chicago selected her third overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft.
She carried that experience into the season opener, recording 22 points and 14 rebounds, including eight offensive boards. Her work on the glass gave Chicago extra possessions, while her presence near the basket helped strengthen the team’s interior defence.
Cardoso’s performance highlighted her importance to Chicago’s plans, particularly as the franchise looks to build a more physical and effective front court.
Rickea Jackson Adds Another Scoring Option
Rickea Jackson also made a strong impression in her Chicago debut. After developing into an important offensive player with the Los Angeles Sparks, she brought her scoring ability and physical style to the Sky.
Jackson finished with 19 points and matched her career high with eight successful free throws. Her contribution gave Chicago another dependable option alongside Cardoso and Diggins.
Her performance could prove valuable as the team continues to establish its offensive identity and looks for consistent scoring from different areas of the court.
Natasha Cloud’s Leadership Remains Valuable
Natasha Cloud missed the season opener because of illness, but her experience and defensive approach remain important to Chicago’s plans.
Her leadership adds another dimension to a roster that already features Diggins’ playmaking and Jackson’s scoring ability. As the season progresses, Cloud’s defensive intensity and experience could help the Sky develop greater consistency.
Although she was unavailable against Portland, the team has several experienced players who can help guide its developing core.
Gabriela Jaquez Makes a Promising Start
Rookie Gabriela Jaquez made her first professional start and finished with 10 points and seven rebounds in 32 minutes. She showed confidence in her new role and gave Chicago another option in its rotation.
As a 2026 draft selection, Jaquez is beginning her professional career at a time when the Sky are working to establish a new team identity. Her energy and willingness to contribute could help her earn a more regular role as the season develops.
Jacy Sheldon Makes an Impact on Defence
Jacy Sheldon contributed 13 points and four assists, while recording three blocks, a new career high. Her defensive activity helped Chicago disrupt Portland’s offence and maintain pressure throughout the game.
Her contribution was another example of how the Sky benefited from having several players involved on both ends of the court. With strong performances from the starting line-up, Chicago was able to rely on more than just its leading scorers.
Chicago’s Rebounding Advantage Makes the Difference
The Sky’s work on the boards was one of the most important factors in their victory. Chicago finished with a plus-22 rebounding margin, helping the team create extra opportunities and limit Portland’s chances to build momentum.
Although Chicago committed 11 turnovers, its control of the rebounds helped offset those mistakes. The Sky also restricted Portland to just three offensive rebounds, making it difficult for the home team to extend possessions through second-chance opportunities.
This combination of interior strength and defensive discipline allowed Chicago to protect its lead. Cardoso was particularly effective in this area, while contributions from the rest of the roster helped the team maintain its advantage.
The opening game offered encouraging signs for Chicago, especially if the team can continue to turn its rebounding strength into reliable scoring opportunities.
The Sky Prepare for Their Next Road Challenge
Chicago will continue its four-game road trip on Wednesday, 13 May, when it travels to San Francisco to face the Golden State Valkyries. Golden State also began the season with a win, defeating Seattle in its opening game.
The matchup will give Chicago another opportunity to test its new line-up against a team that has already secured an early victory. The Sky will also be looking to claim their first franchise win against the Valkyries.
The game is scheduled to begin at 9 pm Central Time at the Chase Center, with local coverage available on The U.
After a convincing opening-night performance, Chicago will aim to carry its momentum into the next contest. Strong contributions from Diggins, Cardoso and the wider roster have given the Sky a positive starting point as they work towards a successful 2026 season.
