On Sunday September 13th, the Chicago Sky are facing off against the Las Vegas Aces in a single elimination playoff game. The Sky and the Aces have had intense matchups all season. The best example came on August 19th where Dolson got 5 fouls in 11 minutes and many Sky players were upset with officiating particularly when it came to Liz Cambage. These teams don’t have bad blood per say, but with the season on the line for both sides this game will be intense.
Reasons why the Sky will win
Playoff Experience and Momentum is Growing
Going into this matchup the Sky have a lot of momentum. They have just won a home playoff game and gained some playoff experience. With a team with little experience every victory from here on out only strengthens their bond and trust with each other. The Sky are less likely to come out cold against the Aces now that they have more playoff experience.
Offensive Powerhouse
Offensively, the Chicago Sky are a problem. They are ahead of the Las Vegas Aces in virtually every statistical category. The Sky are scoring more points, have more assists, and have made more three pointers than the Aces.
In their first game in this playoff run, the Sky dominated and are currently leading all playoff teams in points, rebounds, assists and blocks. Containing the Sky will be a handful and I doubt the Aces can slow them down.
Reasons why the Sky will lose
Not Road Warriors
The Sky have struggled on the road all season long. Having a single elimination road game against the Aces is not ideal. Yes, the Sky are a talented and deep team, but can they overcome their road struggles to win this game? Can they play a team at or above there level and pull off a victory in a hostile environment?
Liz Cambage
Similar to Brittney Griner last game, Liz Cambage can take over a game whenever she wants. We all remember last years 53-point game against the New York Liberty. It wouldn’t be a shock to anyone if Cambage comes out and has a stat line of 25 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 blocks on Sunday.
Not only is Cambage a force, but I don’t think the Sky have any player that can guard her for an extended period of time. Dolson is the most logical choice but can she stay out of foul trouble? Will Astou take over that job or will Parker have to guard Cambage?
Games against these dominant bigs are where the Sky miss Jantel Lavneder the most. They have one less person able to guard a star like Cambage. In my opinion keeping Cambage under control is the key to the game. If she scores less than 15 points, they will win this game. Anymore and this game may not go the Sky’s way.
Prediction
This game will be tough. The Sky will have their hands full with Cambage and the Aces. I’m picking the Sky in a 82-73 victory. They will win a hard fought game by closing the Aces out in the fourth quarter. This game will be a big win and will let anyone who is still skeptical of the Chicago Sky know that they are for real.
