Chicago Sky Moves Games to United Center for Record-Breaking Attendance

CHICAGO, Ill. — The Chicago Sky announced Friday that they will host two games against the Indiana Fever at the United Center, marking the first WNBA contests ever at the venue. The games, originally scheduled for June 7 and July 26, will now occur on June 7 and July 27, with the latter game featuring a 2 p.m. CT tipoff.

With a capacity of over 20,000, the United Center, also home to the NBA’s Bulls and NHL’s Blackhawks, offers a significant increase from the Sky’s typical venue, Wintrust Arena, which seats just 10,000. Sky president and CEO Adam Fox emphasized the decision to move the games was driven by the team’s commitment to enhancing fan experience. “Given the explosive growth in the WNBA, we now have a first-ever opportunity to invite more fans to experience this matchup at a larger venue of the United Center,” Fox stated.

The potential for record-breaking attendance looms large, particularly with the Sky’s franchise record of 16,444 fans set back in July 2016 at Allstate Arena. This year, excitement is heightened due to the rivalry between star players Angel Reese of the Sky and Caitlin Clark from the Fever. Their previous matchups have drawn significant media attention and high viewership.

The Sky and Fever faced each other four times during the 2024 season, with Clark, a notable rookie, and Reese, a seasoned college champion, headlining the encounters. In those games, Clark averaged 20.5 points. “Chicago Sky fans have consistently shown up for the team and the city, and we want to reward their passion and dedication by bringing this excitement to an expanded capacity,” Fox added.

The move follows a trend where several WNBA franchises, including the Washington Mystics, relocated their games to larger venues to accommodate the rising number of fans interested in women’s basketball. The Mystics have also planned to play home games against the Fever at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C.

Tickets for the Chicago Sky versus Indiana Fever games at the United Center will go on sale March 11, coinciding with the release of the Sky’s regular-season tickets. As the WNBA landscape evolves, the expected turnout at the United Center could set new attendance records, spotlighting the growing interest in women’s sports.