After an arduous year-long rehabilitation, Courtney Vandersloot, the esteemed point guard, is poised to make her highly anticipated comeback to the Chicago Sky. Her return signifies a pivotal moment for the team, which has faced considerable challenges due to injuries and inconsistent performance. Fans and teammates alike are eagerly awaiting her presence on the court, hoping she will inject renewed vigor and strategy into their game. Vandersloot's journey back to professional basketball underscores her resilience and dedication to the sport, serving as an inspiration to many.
Vandersloot's Resilient Comeback: A Boost for the Chicago Sky
On Friday, June 25, 2026, at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago, Illinois, the Chicago Sky will witness the much-awaited return of their veteran point guard, Courtney Vandersloot. The 37-year-old athlete, standing at 5-foot-8, is expected to step onto the court for the first time since sustaining a severe ACL injury in early June 2025 during a game against the Indiana Fever. Vandersloot's year-long recovery journey has been marked by intense physiotherapy and unwavering determination. Despite being listed as questionable on Chicago's injury report on Thursday, June 25, her participation is largely anticipated, barring any unforeseen complications. Expressing profound gratitude and excitement to ESPN, Vandersloot articulated her joy at completing her comeback, though words felt insufficient to capture the depth of her emotions.
Vandersloot's illustrious career began in 2011 when she was drafted third overall by the Sky. She spent 12 seasons with the team, contributing significantly to their first WNBA championship victory in 2021. Following her tenure with the Sky, she joined the Liberty as a free agent in 2023, where she secured her second league title in 2024. Her return to Chicago this offseason was part of a dynamic series of roster adjustments. These changes included the trade of star forward Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream and the acquisition of several key players: Skylar Diggins, Azurá Stevens, Rickea Jackson, and Natasha Cloud. Unfortunately, the team also faced another setback with Rickea Jackson being sidelined for the season due to a torn ACL sustained on May 17 against the Minnesota Lynx, for which she recently underwent reconstructive surgery.
Vandersloot's rejoining the active roster is particularly timely for the Chicago Sky, who recently secured a victory against the Portland Fire on Wednesday night. This win was only their second in the 13 games played since Jackson's unfortunate injury. Currently ranked No. 13 in the league standings, the Sky are looking to climb higher, sitting just above the Seattle Storm and Connecticut Sun, both with three wins each. Vandersloot had already begun her reintegration into team activities three weeks prior, participating in 5-on-5 practice sessions. At that time, she confidently informed reporters that her return was imminent and that her recovery was progressing rapidly. To accommodate her activation, the Sky made a roster adjustment by waiving hardship contract signee Saylor Poffenbarger.
Courtney Vandersloot's return is more than just a player coming back from injury; it's a testament to perseverance and the enduring spirit of competition. Her experience and leadership will undoubtedly be invaluable to the Chicago Sky as they navigate the remainder of the season. This event highlights the physical and mental fortitude required of professional athletes, and Vandersloot's journey offers a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity. Her presence will not only elevate the team's performance but also inspire fans and aspiring athletes to pursue their goals with unwavering determination, even in the face of significant challenges.
