Chicago Sky vs. Phoenix Mercury: Starting Lineups and Depth Charts | 2024 WNBA Season (August 18)

The Olympics break is now over, and the focus is well and truly back on the WNBA as two playoff candidates, Phoenix Mercury and Chicago Sky, go head-to-head on Sunday at Footprint Center. Both teams are in good form and keen to get more wins on the board to secure playoff spots.

The Mercury, sitting in sixth place, comes off a 98-89 loss away to the Indiana Fever on Friday. Meanwhile, the Sky, occupying eighth place, heads into the clash after competing double over the LA Sparks with a 90-86 win. The two teams had faced off on Thursday, with the Phoenix securing an 85-65 victory at Wintrust Arena in Chicago.

The Sky (11-15) have lost five of their last nine road games, averaging 79.2 points on 42.6% shooting while allowing 81.6 points on 44%. The Mercury (14-13), while winning four of their last six home games, have averaged 84 points on 44.3% shooting and allowed 85.5 points on 43.6%.

There's plenty of work to do for both teams, and Sunday’s matchup presents a perfect opportunity for either to make a statement and begin to put a good run of results together to strengthen their playoff prospects.

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Chicago Sky vs. Phoenix Mercury: Injury reports

Chicago Sky injury reports for August 18

The Sky will be without center Elizabeth Williams, who underwent successful season-ending surgery to repair a torn meniscus.

Phoenix Mercury injury reports for August 18

The Mercury will be without Charisma Osborne, while Rebecca Allen continues her recovery from injury. Allen is expected to miss at least the start of the post-Olympic schedule, with her return to be assessed in the coming weeks.

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Chicago Sky vs. Phoenix Mercury: Starting lineups and depth charts

Chicago Sky starting lineups and depth charts

Kamilla Cardoso impressed in the Sky's victory over the Sparks last night and is expected to start alongside Angel Reese, Michaela Onyenwere, Rachel Banham and Lindsay Allen.

Phoenix Mercury starting lineups and depth charts

Star players Diana Taurasi, Brittney Griner, Natasha Cloud, Kahleah Copper and Sophie Cunningham are all potential starters for the Mercury. Celeste Taylor traded, Mikiah Herbert and Natasha Mack will be fighting for starting roles.

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Chicago Sky vs. Phoenix Mercury: Ones to watch

Angel Reese

Angel Reese has been a cornerstone for the Sky this season, starting every league game. Her dominant rebounding presence makes her the go-to player for the team in crucial moments.

Reese is a consistent double-double threat, averaging 13.4 points and 12.0 rebounds per game. She will be hungry for more points, and the Bayou Barbie would have earmarked this game as one she could do damage in.