The spotlight at Crypto.com Arena was meant for greatness, and it delivered — both past and present.
Candace Parker’s iconic jersey retirement set the tone for an emotional and historic Sunday afternoon in Los Angeles. One of the WNBA’s most celebrated figures, Parker was honored in front of her former teammates, fans, and family, closing the chapter on a legendary 19-year career that began in purple and gold. The moment was powerful, nostalgic, and deeply deserved.
But once the ceremony ended, the action on the court turned up — and the Chicago Sky made sure to write their own statement.
Angel Reese Owns the Paint
Rookie sensation Angel Reese continues to prove that her game speaks louder than any hype. She was a force inside, grabbing 16 rebounds and notching another double-double, providing the physical presence the Sky needed to stay in the fight. Her relentless effort on the boards was key in turning the momentum in Chicago’s favor after trailing by seven late in the third quarter.
Veteran Presence Turns the Tide
Down 62–61 heading into the fourth, it became the Kia Nurse and Ariel Atkins show for Chicago.
Nurse, a former LA Spark, came off the bench and delivered three clutch bombs from downtown, finishing with 14 points in just 18 minutes. Her confidence and experience in the building were evident as she swung the energy with every shot.
Meanwhile, Ariel Atkins took the reins when it mattered most. She dropped 20 points and orchestrated the Sky’s offense in crunch time with calm and poise. Atkins and Nurse combined for 19 of the Sky’s 31 fourth-quarter points, sealing the game with execution and leadership.
Balanced Attack, Big-Time Win
In a true team effort, six Sky players scored in double figures, showcasing the depth and chemistry of this surging Chicago squad. Their comeback from a seven-point deficit in the third quarter showed grit, and their fourth-quarter dominance proved they can close on the road.
With a 92–85 win, the Sky handed the LA Sparks their seventh home loss (1-7 at Crypto), highlighting the growing pains in LA despite the emotional high of the day.
Legacy Meets the Future
While Candace Parker’s jersey rose to the rafters, a new era of WNBA talent made its presence felt on the hardwood. Angel Reese showed she’s here to stay. Kia Nurse reminded the league she’s still a weapon. And Ariel Atkins demonstrated what real leadership looks like in the clutch.
It was a Sunday afternoon where past greatness was honored, but the future took center stage — and walked away with a win.
