The Chicago Sky opened their 2026 WNBA season with an impressive 98–83 victory over the Portland Fire on 9 May, delivering a strong performance at the Moda Center in Portland. Led by standout performances from Kamilla Cardoso and Skylar Diggins, Chicago showed its offensive strength and ability to respond under pressure.
The game was particularly special for Portland, as the WNBA returned to the city for the first time in 24 years. Although the home crowd had plenty to celebrate, Chicago took control when it mattered most, securing a 15-point win and starting the new season on a positive note.
Kamilla Cardoso and Skylar Diggins Lead Chicago’s Charge
Kamilla Cardoso was one of the biggest contributors to Chicago’s victory, finishing with 22 points and 14 rebounds. Her presence around the basket gave the Sky an important advantage, while her scoring helped the team maintain pressure throughout the contest.
Skylar Diggins also delivered an excellent performance, recording 21 points, 11 rebounds and seven assists. Her experience and ability to create opportunities helped Chicago maintain its attacking rhythm.
Rickea Jackson added another 19 points, giving the Sky an additional scoring option. Meanwhile, Jacy Sheldon contributed 13 points and four assists, helping Chicago maintain its momentum.
Together, the team’s performances showed how its new-look roster could work effectively across different areas of the court.
Portland Fire Make a Memorable Return to the WNBA
Although Portland finished on the losing side, the evening was an important moment for women’s basketball in the city. The Fire’s return brought the WNBA back to Portland after a 24-year absence, attracting a sell-out crowd of 19,335 spectators at the Moda Center.
The atmosphere reflected the excitement surrounding the team’s return. Fans welcomed the players with loud cheers, creating an energetic setting for the expansion franchise’s first regular-season game.
Carla Leite made an immediate impression by scoring the Fire’s first basket, finishing the night with 18 points. Bridget Carleton also played an important role in Portland’s comeback attempt, helping the team find its rhythm during the second half.
Portland Fight Back but Chicago Regain Control
Chicago looked comfortable for much of the first half, heading into the break with a 50–37 advantage. However, Portland returned with renewed energy after half-time and began putting pressure on the visitors.
The Fire produced a 12–2 run early in the third quarter, with Carleton contributing two three-pointers. Their improved defensive pressure disrupted Chicago’s rhythm, and Portland eventually brought the score level at 70–70 with 8:39 remaining.
However, Chicago responded strongly. Rather than allowing Portland to take control, the Sky found their rhythm again and finished the game with a commanding fourth-quarter performance. They outscored the Fire 30–16 in the final period, securing the 98–83 victory.
A Strong Start for Chicago’s New Season
The victory was an encouraging beginning for a Chicago team that had made significant changes to its roster during the off-season. With several new players joining the squad, the opening game offered an early opportunity to see how the team could perform together.
Despite missing several players, including Natasha Cloud, Courtney Vandersloot, Azurá Stevens, DiJonai Carrington and Maddy Westbeld, Chicago managed to deliver an impressive team performance.
The win also marked the Sky’s first opening-game victory in three years, making it a particularly positive result for the franchise.
What Comes Next for Both Teams?
For Chicago, the opening victory provides a promising foundation as the team continues its early-season schedule. The Sky will look to build on the performances of Cardoso, Diggins and Jackson as they work towards greater consistency.
Portland, meanwhile, can take encouragement from its second-half comeback and the strong support it received at home. Despite the defeat, the Fire showed determination and gave their supporters plenty of reasons to look forward to the season ahead.
Chicago ultimately had the stronger finish, but Portland’s return to the WNBA made the evening significant for the city and its basketball community. With the season only beginning, both teams have plenty of opportunities to build on their opening performances.
