Courtney Vandersloot Returns to Chicago Sky in Free Agency Move

CHICAGO, Ill. — Courtney Vandersloot, the Chicago Sky‘s all-time assist leader, is expected to return to her former team after a two-season stint with the New York Liberty, according to multiple sources. The five-time WNBA All-Star, who helped the Liberty secure their first championship in 2024, is set to sign a one-year deal with the Sky, pending official confirmation on Saturday.

Vandersloot, 35, was drafted third overall by the Sky in 2011 and spent 12 seasons with the franchise, leading them to their first WNBA championship in 2021. After a mass exodus of key players following the title run, Vandersloot departed for New York in 2023, where she played a reduced role, averaging 6.4 points and 4.8 assists in 22.3 minutes per game.

Her return to Chicago marks a significant move for the Sky, who are rebuilding under new head coach Tyler Marsh. Vandersloot is expected to reclaim a starting role and provide veteran leadership for a young roster featuring second-year players Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso.

“Courtney’s return is a statement to the league that we are committed to competing at the highest level,” a Sky spokesperson said. “Her experience and playmaking ability are invaluable to our team.”

Vandersloot, a 5-foot-8 guard, has led the WNBA in assists seven times, including in 2023 with the Liberty, where she averaged 8.1 assists per game. Her career averages stand at 10.0 points and 6.6 assists per game, solidifying her reputation as one of the league’s premier point guards.

The Chicago Sun-Times first reported the expected signing, which has been confirmed by ESPN‘s Ramona Shelburne. Vandersloot’s updated social media profiles now list her affiliation as the Chicago Sky, further signaling the impending deal.

This move comes as part of the Sky’s broader strategy to attract top-tier talent and reestablish themselves as a contender in the WNBA. Vandersloot’s return is seen as a pivotal step in that direction, bringing both skill and leadership to a team in transition.