The Chicago Sky welcomed the Minnesota Lynx in what was the Sky’s second preseason game and the first one for the Lynx. Not the auspicious start Minnesota would have preferred.
Minnesota, who burst out last season with an incredible chemistry, looked for most of the game to be rather lackluster. Chicago, with a new coach, new players, and a visible new attitude, played a much tighter game, although each team gave up a few runs that eventually kept it close. Minnesota shot an abysmal 4 – 25 from three, with three of them coming from Alissa Pili.
The Lynx were without Kayla McBride, Diamond Miller, Jessica Shepard, and Dorka Juhász, while Chicago was missing Moriah Jefferson. But overall, Chicago, who had the benefit of having played one previous game, looked the more cohesive team. Granted, it is a preseason game, with rookies and draft signees fighting for a very few roster spots. The Lynx hopefully will shake off the rust and get back to form.
Key Players For The Minnesota Lynx and Chicago Sky
Both Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso proved to be a very tough inside presence, each looking more comfortable with new teammates and a new coach. The return of Courtney Vandersloot brings a true point guard back to Chicago. Her dynamic presence is a huge boost for the Sky, adding a maturity to the position that they did not have last year. The addition of both Ariel Atkins and Kia Nurse gives Chicago more veteran presence, and perhaps a discipline that will give the Sky a much different look.
Alissaaaaaaaaaaaa 3/3 pic.twitter.com/KTp1KedK7O
— Minnesota Lynx (@minnesotalynx) May 7, 2025
Minnesota has brought in Karlie Samuelson, a three point specialist, to fill the vacancy that Cecilia Zandalasini left when she was selected by the new Golden State Valkyries. French import Marieme Badiane scored seven points in 14 minutes. A 30 year old rookie, her experience was present in her composure on the court. 20 year old Russian Anastasiia Olairi Kosu played only four minutes but grabbed four points and four rebounds.
Minnesota and Chicago Will Face Off Again This Weekend
Both teams have a slew of hopefuls, and they meet again at Target Center on Saturday. How different each roster looks will be interesting to see. Playing in front of a home crowd, the Lynx should rise to the occasion. At this point, Minnesota has more questions than answers, so what happens in the days leading up to the season opener will be crucial.
But as far as a preseason game goes, it was an entertaining game, moreso for Sky fans, but when at full strength and after shaking off the ring rust, the Lynx fans won’t have much to worry about.
And that, my friends, as they say, is that.’ — Martin Ruben.
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