Former New York Liberty guard Courtney Vandersloot is reportedly expected to sign with the Chicago Sky in WNBA free agency, per Annie Costabile of The Chicago Sun-Times. The Liberty still have plenty of depth on the roster, but losing Vandersloot to the Sky is a difficult blow.
Vandersloot would have been a fit for a number of teams around the league. Unless the deal does not officially come to fruition, it appears that she is set to join the Sky. Chicago features a bright future with Angel Reese leading the way. The 35-year-old will provide veteran prowess for the Sky as the team hopes to contend sooner rather than later.
The Sky endured an up and down season in 2024. Adding a veteran such as Vandersloot will only help them in that regard. She knows what it takes to win. Vandersloot could certainly emerge as one of the leaders on the roster.
Courtney Vandersloot's WNBA career
Vandersloot, a five-time All-Star, played in Chicago with the Sky from 2011 through the 2022 campaign. She joined the Liberty in 2023 and immediately made a significant impact. Vandersloot was selected to her fifth All-Star team after averaging 10.5 points, 8.1 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 1.3 steals per outing.
In 2024, though, Vandersloot saw her production decrease. She was also limited to only 31 games played. Vandersloot recorded averages of 6.4 points, 4.8 assists and 2.6 rebounds per game in 2024. Although it was not her best season, the veteran guard still played a big role in the Liberty's championship run.
Liberty looking to move forward
As mentioned, losing Vandersloot in free agency is obviously far from ideal for the Liberty. New York still has an all-around talented team, though. They will be among the favorites to win another championship during the upcoming 2025 season.
With Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones leading the way, there is no reason to doubt this Liberty team. Additionally, New York has been mentioned as a potential suitor for Dallas Wings star Satou Sabally. The Wings made the move to core Sabally but she is still likely to be traded.
It will be intriguing to see if New York attempts to replace Vandersloot with another veteran in free agency or via a trade. They do not necessarily need another veteran, but it would not hurt following Vandersloot's expected departure.
Courtney Vandersloot is ready for a reunion with the Sky as the Liberty attempt to move forward.