A thriller unfolded in the Windy City on Thursday night as the Chicago Sky narrowly held off the Dallas Wings to secure their first win of the WNBA regular season, snapping a tough 0–4 start.
Chicago entered the fourth quarter trailing by five after giving up a halftime lead, but thanks to clutch plays from veteran Courtney Vandersloot, Ariel Atkins, and a steady performance from second-year star Kamilla Cardoso, the Sky managed to hold on for a much-needed victory.
Following the win, the Sky named Cardoso their Player of the Game — an honor the team awards after every contest. It was her first time receiving the recognition this season.
She finished with a career-high 23 points and eight rebounds, including 12 points in the first quarter alone, while shooting an efficient 9-for-13 from the field.
"CAREER HIGH FOR KILLA MILLA," Sky posted.
CAREER HIGH FOR KILLA MILLA@MagellanCorp | #Skytown pic.twitter.com/NLaVzzIm4G
— Chicago Sky (@chicagosky) May 30, 2025
Unlike previous games, the decision was met with widespread approval from fans. The team had faced criticism for naming a Player of the Game after each of their first four losses, but Cardoso’s standout performance made this selection undeniable.
"I'm so happy they used her right finally!" a fan said.
Someone else added, "Demon mode activated!"
Another fan posted, "BIG MILLA NOT THE LIL ONE! She was eating this game."
"lets goooooo," one more fan commented.
Ariel Atkins chipped in with 17 points, five rebounds, and six assists, while Courtney Vandersloot contributed 13 points, nine assists, and four steals.
Chicago will be back in action on Saturday as they travel to Dallas for a rematch with the Wings, aiming to build momentum and turn their first win into the start of a streak.
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