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Chicago Sky deal Katie Lou Samuelson to Dallas Wings for Azura Stevens

By Nicholas Niendorf

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - MAY 25: Katie Lou Samuelson #33 of the Chicago Sky looks to pass during her team's game against the Minnesota Lynx at Target Center on May 25, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Wasson/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - MAY 25: Katie Lou Samuelson #33 of the Chicago Sky looks to pass during her team's game against the Minnesota Lynx at Target Center on May 25, 2019 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Wasson/Getty Images) /
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Chicago shores up its front-court depth in the deal and Dallas brings in another young talent

The Chicago Sky traded Katie Lou Samuelson and a 2021 first-round draft pick to the Dallas Wings on Friday in exchange for Wings forward Azura Stevens.

Chicago drafted Samuelson with the No. 4 pick in last year’s draft following her successful career with UConn. The rookie only played in 20 games, however, in large part due to a wrist injury and a crowded fontcourt rotation in Chicago.

“We want to thank Katie Lou for her contributions to our team in Chicago, both on and off the court,” said Sky General Manager James Wade. “We believe she will be a great player in this league, and feel that this will give her the opportunity and playing time she deserves.”

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Samuelson averaged 2.4 points and 0.9 rebounds in 7.4 minutes of playtime last season. With Dallas’ new rebuild, Samuelson will likely be given more of an opportunity to play with the Wings.

“Katie Lou brings a versatile game to Dallas, headlined by her ability to hit shots from anywhere on the court,” stated Dallas Wings President Greg Bibb. “With her length and basketball IQ, I see her playing multiple positions for us, with the three being where she logs the most minutes. I think the addition of Katie Lou will help us spread the court and create additional challenges for the opposing defense. We need shooters and Katie Lou meets that need.”

The Sky bring back front-court depth in the trade. The 6-foot-4 Stevens has potential to both stretch the floor and provide defensive versatility off the bench behind Jantel Lavender and Stefanie Dolson.

“We are very excited to welcome Azura to the Sky,” Wade said, “With her size and skill set, she fills a hole that we are currently lack and need to reach the next level.”

Stevens, who also attended UConn, underwent foot surgery last August in her second year in the league after dealing with recurring foot problems in the 2019 off-season.  She averaged 8.9 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.1 blocks in her rookie year with the Wings.

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