The Chicago Sky's much-anticipated new training center in Bedford Park, Illinois, will not be operational for the current 2026 season. This decision comes after construction delays and an increase in the facility's scope, leading the team's management to prioritize a fully completed environment for their athletes.
Chicago Sky Practice Facility Faces Significant Delays and Cost Overruns
On Friday, July 17, 2026, Chicago Sky General Manager Jeff Pagliocca informed reporters at Wintrust Arena that the team's planned state-of-the-art practice facility in Bedford Park, Illinois, would not be available for the 2026 season. Citing ongoing construction, Pagliocca stated that the facility would only be partially finished by the season's end, and the organization opted against having the team train amidst an active construction site. Instead, the Sky will continue to hold the majority of their practices at Wintrust Arena, their home game venue, ensuring a consistent and uninterrupted training environment.
Pagliocca revealed that the facility's completion, originally targeted for December 2025, is now projected for November 2026, in preparation for the 2027 season. A key factor in this delay is the significant expansion of the project, which has doubled the facility's planned size from 40,000 to approximately 80,000 square feet. This expansion has also led to substantial cost increases; the initial estimate of $38 million has ballooned to an estimated $60 million as of February 2026. The Sky is sharing these costs with the city of Bedford Park, which is contributing $31.8 million.
The delays have impacted the team's operations, as the Sky began their season practicing at the Flames Athletic Center at the University of Illinois Chicago, incurring costs of $160,000 for 32 days. While Wintrust Arena remains the primary practice location, the team has also utilized Loyola University Chicago for some sessions. Pagliocca emphasized the importance of transparency with the players regarding these updates. The new WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) mandates certain practice facility standards, with penalties for non-compliance set to begin in the 2028 season, adding pressure for the facility's timely completion.
The prolonged wait for a dedicated training facility highlights the critical need for adequate infrastructure in professional sports. While delays are sometimes unavoidable, especially with ambitious projects, this situation underscores the importance of realistic timelines and transparent communication with athletes. Providing a complete and professional environment is crucial for team performance and player well-being, as star players like Skylar Diggins have publicly voiced the impact of such resource gaps. Ultimately, the Sky's decision to wait for full completion, despite the inconvenience, reflects a commitment to delivering a top-tier experience for their team, which could foster long-term success and player satisfaction.
