Skylar Diggins Benched by Chicago Sky

Sky Shifts to New Backcourt

Skylar Diggins announced on Monday, July 6, that she will move to the bench after starting all 19 games this season. The 35‑year‑old guard said she has been putting her body on the line for the team and accepted the new role professionally. Diggins also posted a sarcastic note on social media, signaling the unexpected shift.

Diggins Responds to Decision

After the news broke, Diggins shared a video saying she had been “so good and quiet,” hinting at her understated impact. The former All‑Star added that the decision was made by the organization and she was ready to live with it. Her public reaction balanced humor with an acknowledgment of the team’s hierarchy.

Vandersloot Returns as Starting Guard

The bench spot appears to be for Courtney Vandersloot, who returned to action on June 26 after a torn right ACL. Vandersloot averages 8.7 points and 6.0 assists in 16 minutes per game, while Diggins posted 14.2 points, 3.2 rebounds and 4.9 assists over 29.1 minutes. The swap reunites two veteran playmakers and could alter the Sky’s rhythm.

How the Change Affects Chicago’s Standings

The Sky retooled the roster in the offseason, trading Angel Reese, and opened the year 3‑1 before Rickea Jackson’s left‑knee ACL tear. Chicago now sits 13th in the WNBA with a 6‑14 record, and the lineup shuffle may affect its playoff positioning. Diggins’ removal comes after an All‑Star season where she consistently averaged near 14 points per game.

Rookie of the Year Slideshow

The accompanying slideshow highlights WNBA Rookie of the Year winners, featuring Paige Bueckers’ 19.2‑point campaign and Betty Lennox’s 2000 honors. Such early‑career achievements often set the tone for a franchise’s future, similar to how Diggins impressed as a first‑year starter. Fans can compare these standout rookies to the current veteran adjustments happening in Chicago.