Veteran Skylar Diggins determined to bring high standards to Chicago Sky: 'We're not going to get punked'

Skylar Diggins will be responsible for establishing a new culture with the Chicago Sky. 'I bought into the vision,' the veteran point guard said.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 9:59pm

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After playing her entire career on the West Coast, 35-year-old veteran point guard Skylar Diggins has signed with the Chicago Sky, determined to lead the team back to the playoffs. Diggins acknowledged the risk of joining a team fresh off two losing seasons, but said she's 'bought into the vision' of the Sky's new coach Tyler Marsh and general manager Jeff Pagliocca. Diggins, who grew up in nearby South Bend, Indiana, wants to play closer to family and is confident the Sky have assembled a competitive roster that fits her defensive-minded approach.

Why it matters

The Sky have struggled in recent years, winning only 10 games last season and failing to make the playoffs since 2023. Diggins' arrival is seen as a crucial first step in recalibrating the team's perception and attracting top free agent talent to Chicago. As an experienced veteran, Diggins will be responsible for establishing a new winning culture and high standards for the team.

The details

Diggins, a 12-year WNBA veteran, felt the Sky's pitch went beyond just the proximity to her hometown. She was impressed by the team's plan to build around center Kamilla Cardoso and the potential additions of free agents like Rickea Jackson and Azurá Stevens. Diggins knows her reputation as a demanding team captain who isn't afraid to challenge her teammates, and she believes the Sky's roster has the right mix of personalities to embrace that leadership style.

  • Diggins signed with the Chicago Sky as a free agent in April 2026.

The players

Skylar Diggins

A 35-year-old veteran point guard who has played her entire WNBA career on the West Coast. She is now joining the Chicago Sky, determined to lead the team back to the playoffs.

Jeff Pagliocca

The general manager of the Chicago Sky who convinced Diggins to sign with the team by assembling a competitive roster that fits her defensive-minded approach.

Tyler Marsh

The head coach of the Chicago Sky who is working to establish a new winning culture and high standards for the team.

Kamilla Cardoso

The center for the Chicago Sky who will be a key part of the team's plan moving forward.

Rickea Jackson

A free agent forward who is expected to be traded to the Chicago Sky.

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What they’re saying

“I'm bought into the vision. I'm not just coming here saying this is the end or whatever for me. I want to play some good basketball. I still have a lot to go as far as what I feel like I can do, especially with this team.”

— Skylar Diggins, Veteran Point Guard

“Everybody that knows me knows I challenge my teammates around me. I wouldn't say I'm an easy teammate, but I'm a good teammate because I'm going to challenge you.”

— Skylar Diggins, Veteran Point Guard

“Our standards have to be strong. Because if we have strong standards, then that demands respect. We're not going to get punked. I'm the chief of security right here. It's just our identity. Who are we going to be?”

— Skylar Diggins, Veteran Point Guard

What’s next

The Chicago Sky will look to build around Skylar Diggins and the rest of their new-look roster as they aim to return to the playoffs for the first time since 2023.

The takeaway

Skylar Diggins' arrival in Chicago represents a crucial turning point for the Sky, who have struggled in recent years. As an experienced veteran, Diggins is determined to establish a new winning culture and high standards for the team, which she believes can quickly return to competitiveness with the right mix of players and leadership.