The Chicago Sky have made a dramatic turnaround, cracking the top five of this week's ESPN Power Rankings at number four after a 3-1 start. Just last season, Chicago finished 10-34 and tied for last place, at odds with star Angel Reese and facing major questions about the franchise's direction. The Sky responded by trading Reese to Atlanta for two future first-round picks, adding veterans Skylar Diggins and Natasha Cloud, and prioritizing defensive improvement after finishing last in defensive rating (111.9) in 2025.

That plan appeared to be working until Sunday, when forward Rickea Jackson — acquired from Los Angeles in April for Ariel Atkins — suffered a torn ACL that will sideline her for the rest of the season. Jackson, the No. 4 pick in 2024, was averaging 18.0 points and 4.0 rebounds through her first four games. Despite her absence in the second half, the Sky still defeated Minnesota 86-79, with rookie Gabriela Jaquez scoring 20 points and Kamilla Cardoso adding a double-double.

The Sky's defensive transformation has been remarkable — they now lead the league with a 99.4 defensive rating after opening with four consecutive road games. Their home opener arrives Wednesday against Dallas, with five of their next six games scheduled in Chicago. The Sky are also managing injuries to Diggins, Courtney Vandersloot, DiJonai Carrington and Azura Stevens, making their early success even more impressive.