Skylar Diggins Leads Chicago Sky Past Connecticut Sun, Ending Five-Game Skid

CHICAGO (AP) — In a thrilling matchup on Friday night, Skylar Diggins showcased her skills by scoring 24 points, helping the Chicago Sky secure an 85-80 victory over the Connecticut Sun and snap a challenging five-game losing streak. Diggins was particularly dominant in the first half, contributing 18 points before the break.

With just 1:20 left in the game, Diggins completed a crucial three-point play that elevated Chicago's lead to 80-77. However, Saniya Rivers quickly countered with a 3-pointer from the corner, keeping the game tense. Elizabeth Williams stepped up in the final minute, putting Chicago ahead 82-79 with a critical layup and later extending the lead with a hook shot, before Diggins secured the win at the free-throw line.

In addition to Diggins, Azura Stevens recorded a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds, while Natasha Cloud added another 13 points for the Sky (4-6). Williams, who scored all of her 10 points in the second half, played a vital role in the team's late-game surge. Kamilla Cardoso contributed 10 points and eight rebounds, rounding out a strong performance from the Chicago lineup.

On the opposing side, Connecticut (2-10) saw Diamond Miller and Brittney Griner both score 16 points, while Rivers tallied 14 points. Aneesah Morrow also made an impact with 17 rebounds along with eight points. The Sun struggled on the road, now holding a disappointing 1-7 record away from home this season.

After a sluggish first quarter where they managed only 11 points, the Sky found their rhythm in the second, pouring in 32 points to close the gap to 45-43 by halftime. Cloud's late scoring in the third quarter, including a pivotal 3-pointer, helped maintain momentum as the game drew to a close.

Looking ahead, Connecticut will return home to face New York on Monday, while Chicago is set to travel to Toronto for their next game on Sunday.