Sky, Sparks Discuss Ariel Atkins-Rickea Jackson Trade

Potential blockbuster WNBA deal would send two-time All-Star to Los Angeles

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:05pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting overlapping planes of color and abstract basketball shapes, conveying the dynamic energy of a WNBA game.A cubist interpretation of the potential trade between the Sky and Sparks, deconstructing the players' movements and energy on the court.Chicago Today

The Chicago Sky are in talks to trade two-time All-Star guard Ariel Atkins to the Los Angeles Sparks for forward Rickea Jackson, according to a report. While nothing has been finalized, an announcement is expected on Saturday.

Why it matters

This potential trade would shake up the WNBA landscape, with the Sky potentially parting ways with a key piece of their roster after already making a major move earlier this week. The Sparks would be acquiring a proven two-way talent in Atkins to pair with their rising star Jackson.

The details

Atkins, 29, averaged 13.1 points, 3.6 assists, 3.4 rebounds and 1.6 steals in 34 games for the Sky last season. A 2019 WNBA champion with the Washington Mystics, Atkins is a five-time All-Defensive team selection and a 36.2% career 3-point shooter. Jackson, 25, averaged 14.7 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.7 assists for the Sparks in 2025 after being drafted 4th overall in 2024 and making the All-Rookie team.

  • The potential trade is expected to be announced on Saturday, April 12, 2026.

The players

Ariel Atkins

A two-time WNBA All-Star guard who has spent her entire career with the Washington Mystics and Chicago Sky.

Rickea Jackson

A 25-year-old forward who was the 4th overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft by the Los Angeles Sparks and made the All-Rookie team that year.

Chicago Sky

The WNBA team based in Chicago, Illinois that Ariel Atkins currently plays for.

Los Angeles Sparks

The WNBA team based in Los Angeles, California that Rickea Jackson currently plays for.

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What’s next

If the trade is finalized, it will be a major roster shakeup for both the Sky and Sparks ahead of the 2026 WNBA season.

The takeaway

This potential trade highlights the constant player movement and roster changes that occur in the WNBA, as teams look to find the right mix of talent to compete for championships.