After a lengthy absence due to injury, DiJonai Carrington made a significant impact in her 2026 debut, steering the Chicago Sky to a 94-88 victory over the Connecticut Sun on Thursday.
Having suffered a foot sprain during last season’s postseason, Carrington missed both training camp and the first half of the current season. Her return came in the second quarter when she checked in and quickly sank an open three-pointer, marking her first field goal of the year.
Previously drafted by Connecticut in the 2021 second round, Carrington’s career includes notable achievements such as earning the Most Improved Player award and a spot on the All-Defensive First Team in 2024. After stints with Dallas and Minnesota, she signed with Chicago as a free agent this spring, setting the stage for this emotional reunion.
Chicago Mounts 2nd-Half Comeback in Sun vs Sky Matchup
Coming off the bench, Carrington contributed nine points, providing much-needed scoring punch to a Sky team grappling with roster challenges. Currently holding a 10-18 record, Chicago has been hampered by injuries to key players. Rickea Jackson’s season was cut short with a torn ACL, while Skylar Diggins continues to contend with an ongoing knee issue, sidelining her on a week-to-week basis.
Carrington’s versatility in alternating between guard and forward roles offers the Sky crucial depth and flexibility that was lacking just a week prior. Her presence on the floor was instrumental in Chicago’s second-half resurgence, ultimately securing the win over the Sun.