The Chicago Sky handed the Golden State Valkyries their first loss of the 2026 season in a defensive battle at the Chase Center on Wednesday night.
Chicago overcame a 12-point deficit to secure a 69-63 win, moving the Valkyries to a 2-1 record.
The game was a struggle for both offenses. Chicago lacked energy, going 0-for-11 from three-point range and trailing 19-7 after the first quarter. But then the Sky’s defense locked in, holding the Valkyries to just nine points in the second.
Rookie standout Rickea Jackson proved to be the difference-maker for Chicago. She scored 18 points, including a clutch three-pointer with 1:41 remaining that silenced the sold-out crowd of 18,064.
Skylar Diggins added another 15 points and seven assists for the Sky, orchestrating a second-half offense that finally found its rhythm.
The Valkyries, meanwhile, struggled with shooting all night, finishing at just 29.3% from the field. Gabby Williams matched Jackson with 18 points and Veronica Burton sparked a late run with 16 points, but Golden State just couldn't overcome a rare off-night from Kayla Thornton, who went 0-for-11.
WNBA Betting Odds 2026: Sky Defies the Spread
Heading into the matchup, the Sky vs Valkyries predictions favored Golden State by 5.5 points. Chicago’s outright win provided a big payout for sports bettors at +195.
Chicago will now continue its season-opening road trip in Phoenix this Friday, while Golden State enjoys a week off before traveling to the New York Liberty.
