The Chicago Sky are headed back to Chicago in a 1-1 playoffs semi-finals series tie with the Connecticut Sun.
The magic number for Chicago is two. Win the next two, and they advance to the WNBA Finals in historic fashion. The ball is in Chicago’s court as home court advantage has switched to the Windy City.
Chicago must come out with a pace and keep that pace up for 40 minutes straight. Connecticut’s physical defense has looked to slow Chicago down; they cannot let that happen on Sunday.
Sun forward Alyssa Thomas reverted back to her old self just in time for Connecticut’s playoff run. Chicago must contain Thomas and make her uncomfortable.
The bench of the Sky will also play a considerable part in trying to close the series out. Fatigue was a significant factor in the fourth quarter of game two; as Chicago only scored 9 points in the fourth quarter. The bench of Chicago has to do a stronger job of holding any lead the starters provide, while letting the starters rest.
After their game two loss, head coach James Wade had this to say about his bench.
“When our bench comes in, we expect them to keep it even,” said Wade. “I don’t think we did that tonight, but we will be better on Sunday.”
The influence of Chicago forward Candace Parker will play a big part for the Sky in upcoming games. Chicago look to her for direction on the offensive and defensive end. Parker, who has two WNBA final runs underneath her belt, must stay aggressive on offense for the Sky.
Chicago accomplished their goal: steal a win on the Connecticut Sun home floor. Now it’s time for Chicago to dig deep and get the task done at home.
Catch Chicago Sky in their next game against the Connecticut Sun on Sunday at 1:00 pm ET on ESPN.
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