Chicago Sky Defeats Toronto Tempo 97-85 in WNBA Showdown
Tuesday, September 22, 2026, 8:00 PM ET · Wintrust Arena
Chicago Sky 97, Toronto Tempo 85, final. Our WNBA picks are sealed as a hash before kickoff and settled in public, losses included.
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Quick answers
Who won Toronto Tempo vs Chicago Sky?
Chicago Sky beat Toronto Tempo 97-85 at Wintrust Arena on September 22, 2026.
Who was favored in Toronto Tempo vs Chicago Sky?
Chicago Sky were the favorite at DraftKings, moneyline -205 (about 67% implied). The favorite won.
The Chicago Sky secured a solid victory over the Toronto Tempo with a final score of 97-85 at Wintrust Arena. This matchup was significant as it marked the final game of the series, in which Toronto had previously won two out of three encounters. The Sky's win not only showcased their resilience but also highlighted their ability to perform at home despite recent struggles.
In terms of recent form, the Chicago Sky entered the game with a record of 3-7 over their last ten games, currently on a five-game losing streak. They averaged 80.5 points scored per game while allowing 92.5 points in that span. Their last five games reflected a sharper decline, with an average of 79.6 points scored and 100.2 points allowed. This performance trend raised concerns about their defensive capabilities leading into the matchup against Toronto.
Conversely, the Toronto Tempo had a record of 1-9 in their last ten games, also on a six-game losing streak. They averaged 79.9 points scored while allowing 94.8 points. Their recent games indicated a similar struggle, with their last five yielding an average of 74.8 points scored and 98.6 points allowed. Both teams faced significant challenges in their recent outings, making the stakes of this game even higher.
At home, the Sky held a record of 2-2 over their last four home games, while their away record was notably weaker at 1-5. The Tempo, on the other hand, had a home record of 1-4 and an away record of 0-5, underscoring their difficulties in securing wins outside their home venue. This game was crucial for both teams, as they sought to end their respective losing streaks.
In terms of head-to-head matchups, the Sky had lost both previous meetings with the Tempo earlier in the season, with scores of 68-85 and 104-111. This context added an extra layer of motivation for Chicago to perform well and turn the tide in their favor.
Injuries played a significant role in the game, particularly for the Sky, who were missing key players including Aicha Coulibaly, DiJonai Carrington, Natasha Cloud, Azura Stevens, and Skylar Diggins, all sidelined due to various injuries. The Tempo also faced challenges with Kamila Borkowska, Maria Gakdeng, Temi Fagbenle, Marina Mabrey, and Aneesah Morrow all out, affecting their lineup and depth.
The betting odds from DraftKings indicated that Chicago was favored to win by 5.5 points, with a total set at 180.5. The moneyline reflected Chicago at -205 and Toronto at +170, suggesting that the market viewed the Sky as the more likely team to win.
Conditions during the game were standard for a late September evening, with both teams looking to capitalize on their respective strengths. As the game progressed, viewers were treated to a display of scoring plays, including notable contributions from Isabelle Harrison and Laura Juskaite, who made significant impacts in the fourth quarter.
The Sky's victory was characterized by their ability to maintain control and respond effectively to the Tempo's attempts to close the gap. The final quarter saw scoring plays that included free throws and critical shots from both teams, but Chicago ultimately held on to their lead, sealing the game with a strong performance.
Overall, this matchup was not only a testament to the Chicago Sky's determination to overcome their recent struggles but also a reminder of the competitive nature of the WNBA, where every game can shift the narrative for teams battling for respect and positioning.
What we said beforehand
The Chicago Sky will face the Toronto Tempo at Wintrust Arena on September 23, 2026, in a matchup that sees the Tempo leading the series 2-0. This game is particularly significant as both teams are struggling this season, with the Sky holding a record of 15-27 and the Tempo at 11-31. The stakes are high for both squads as they look to end their respective losing streaks and gain some momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.
In their last five games, the Chicago Sky have not found success, recording five consecutive losses. Their most recent defeat came against the Atlanta Dream, where they lost 106-81. Over this stretch, the Sky have averaged 79.6 points per game while allowing 100.2 points, indicating defensive struggles. Their home record stands at 2-2 in the last ten games, but they have lost their last five outings, scoring an average of 80.5 points while giving up 92.5.
Conversely, the Toronto Tempo have also been on a downward spiral, losing their last six games. Their latest loss was a 106-69 defeat against the New York Liberty. The Tempo's recent form shows they have averaged 74.8 points in their last five games while allowing 98.6 points. They have struggled away from home, with a record of 0-5 in their last five away games and an overall away record of 1-5 in their last ten.
Both teams have faced significant injury challenges. The Chicago Sky will be without Aicha Coulibaly, DiJonai Carrington, Natasha Cloud, Azura Stevens, and Skylar Diggins, all of whom are out due to various injuries. This absence of key players could severely impact their performance. The Toronto Tempo are also dealing with injuries, as Kamila Borkowska, Maria Gakdeng, Temi Fagbenle, Marina Mabrey, and Aneesah Morrow are all out, affecting their depth and strategy.
The betting market has set the odds with DraftKings, favoring the Sky by 5.5 points. The total for the game is set at 180.5, with the over priced at -112.0 and the under at -108.0. The moneyline reflects the Sky at -218.0 and the Tempo at 180.0, indicating the Sky are perceived as the stronger team despite their recent form.
Historically, the Sky have struggled against the Tempo this season, losing both previous meetings. In their first encounter on May 28, 2026, the Sky lost 104-111 at home, and in their second meeting on June 7, 2026, they fell 68-85 away. This trend adds pressure on the Sky to perform well at home, especially with their fans in attendance.
Conditions for the game will be crucial, as both teams look to find their rhythm. The Sky will need to capitalize on their home court advantage, while the Tempo will aim to break their losing streak and gain confidence. Fans should watch for how the Sky's remaining players adapt to the absence of their key scorers and how the Tempo responds to their own injury challenges.
As the game approaches, both teams are in dire need of a win to shift the narrative of their seasons. The matchup promises to be an intriguing contest as the Sky look to turn their fortunes around against a Tempo team that has also been struggling.
Odds
| Book | Spread | Total | Moneyline |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | CHI -5.5 | 180.5 o -112 / u -108 | Toronto Tempo +170 · Chicago Sky -205 |
Injury report
- Aicha CoulibalyOutKneeChicago Sky
- DiJonai CarringtonOutFootChicago Sky
- Natasha CloudOutKneeChicago Sky
- Azura StevensOutKneeChicago Sky
- Skylar DigginsOutKneeChicago Sky
- Kamila BorkowskaOutCoach's DecisionToronto Tempo
- Maria GakdengOutCoach's DecisionToronto Tempo
- Temi FagbenleOutPersonalToronto Tempo
- Marina MabreyOutHipToronto Tempo
- Aneesah MorrowOutKneeToronto Tempo
Leaders
- PointsSydney Taylor18Chicago Sky
- AssistsCourtney Vandersloot9Chicago Sky
- ReboundsElizabeth Williams11Chicago Sky
- PointsIsabelle Harrison21Toronto Tempo
- AssistsKiki Rice7Toronto Tempo
- ReboundsIsabelle Harrison13Toronto Tempo
Recent form
Chicago Sky
Last 10: 3-7Streak L580.5 scored · 92.5 allowed per game2-2 at home
- L81-106at Atlanta DreamSep 19
- L80-110vs Washington MysticsSep 18
- L66-85at New York LibertyAug 29
- L81-87at Connecticut SunAug 25
- L90-113vs Indiana FeverAug 23
- W73-70vs Golden State ValkyriesAug 21
- W93-86vs New York LibertyAug 19
- W82-80at Seattle StormAug 16
- L71-91at Golden State ValkyriesAug 13
- L88-97at Seattle StormAug 11
Toronto Tempo
Last 10: 1-9Streak L679.9 scored · 94.8 allowed per game0-5 away
- L69-106vs New York LibertySep 20
- L85-103vs Indiana FeverSep 18
- L69-101at Phoenix MercuryAug 30
- L73-93at Las Vegas AcesAug 29
- L78-90at Seattle StormAug 27
- L78-88vs Las Vegas AcesAug 23
- W82-79vs Portland FireAug 22
- L82-93at Washington MysticsAug 19
- L95-101vs Indiana FeverAug 18
- L88-94at Dallas WingsAug 13
Standings
| Team | Games behind | Lost | Streak | Win % | Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Atlanta | - | 14 | W4 | .674 | 29 |
| Indiana | 1.5 | 15 | L1 | .643 | 27 |
| Washington | 2 | 16 | W3 | .628 | 27 |
| New York | 3 | 17 | L1 | .605 | 26 |
| Chicago | 13 | 27 | W1 | .372 | 16 |
| Toronto | 18 | 32 | L7 | .256 | 11 |
| Connecticut | 19 | 33 | L6 | .233 | 10 |
Box score
| Stat | Toronto Tempo | Chicago Sky |
|---|---|---|
| Field goals | 29-74 | 39-75 |
| Field goal % | 39 | 52 |
| Three-pointers | 13-26 | 12-32 |
| Three-point % | 50 | 38 |
| Free throws | 14-15 | 7-8 |
| Free throw % | 93 | 88 |
| Rebounds | 40 | 35 |
| Offensive rebounds | 13 | 6 |
| Defensive rebounds | 27 | 29 |
| Assists | 21 | 27 |
| Steals | 10 | 6 |
| Blocks | 3 | 5 |
| Turnovers | 16 | 12 |
| Team turnovers | 2 | 0 |
| Technical fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Technical fouls, total | 0 | 0 |
| Flagrant fouls | 0 | 0 |
| Points off turnovers | 24 | 16 |
| Fast-break points | 16 | 20 |
| Points in the paint | 28 | 54 |
| Fouls | 13 | 17 |
| Largest lead | 4 | 22 |
| Lead changes | 21 | 21 |
| Time in front | 15 | 73 |
How the scoring went
- 3rd Quarter46-60Kamilla Cardoso makes 2-foot layup (Morgan Maly assists)
- 3rd Quarter48-60Kiki Rice makes running layup
- 3rd Quarter48-62Kamilla Cardoso makes two point shot
- 3rd Quarter51-62Kia Nurse makes 25-foot three point step back jumpshot (Kiki Rice assists)
- 3rd Quarter51-65Jacy Sheldon makes 22-foot three point jumper (Elizabeth Williams assists)
- 3rd Quarter53-65Teonni Key makes two point shot
- 3rd Quarter53-67Elizabeth Williams makes 3-foot two point shot (Jacy Sheldon assists)
- 3rd Quarter55-67Laura Juskaite makes running layup (Kiki Rice assists)
- 3rd Quarter55-70Morgan Maly makes 23-foot three point jumper (Jacy Sheldon assists)
- 3rd Quarter55-72Jacy Sheldon makes two point shot
- 4th Quarter58-72Kia Nurse makes 24-foot running jump shot (Laura Juskaite assists)
- 4th Quarter58-74Morgan Maly makes 2-foot layup (Kate Martin assists)
- 4th Quarter59-74Laura Juskaite makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter60-74Laura Juskaite makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter60-75Sydney Taylor makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter60-76Sydney Taylor makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter63-76Zaay Green makes 22-foot three point jumper (Laura Juskaite assists)
- 4th Quarter63-78Kamilla Cardoso makes 3-foot layup (Elizabeth Williams assists)
- 4th Quarter66-78Laura Juskaite makes 24-foot three point jumper (Kiki Rice assists)
- 4th Quarter66-79Sydney Taylor makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter66-80Sydney Taylor makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter68-80Kiki Rice makes 16-foot pullup jump shot (Teonni Key assists)
- 4th Quarter68-82Gabriela Jaquez makes 9-foot two point shot
- 4th Quarter69-82Teonni Key makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter70-82Teonni Key makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter70-85Sydney Taylor makes 24-foot three point jumper (Courtney Vandersloot assists)
- 4th Quarter70-87Sydney Taylor makes running layup
- 4th Quarter70-88Sydney Taylor makes free throw 1 of 1
- 4th Quarter70-90Elizabeth Williams makes 2-foot layup (Courtney Vandersloot assists)
- 4th Quarter73-90Ornella Bankole makes 23-foot three point jumper (Laura Juskaite assists)
- 4th Quarter73-93Gabriela Jaquez makes 24-foot three point jumper (Courtney Vandersloot assists)
- 4th Quarter73-95Gabriela Jaquez makes running layup
- 4th Quarter74-95Laura Juskaite makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter76-95Isabelle Harrison makes 8-foot two point shot (Kiki Rice assists)
- 4th Quarter78-95Laura Juskaite makes running layup
- 4th Quarter81-95Laura Juskaite makes 24-foot three pointer
- 4th Quarter81-97Kate Martin makes 5-foot two point shot
- 4th Quarter82-97Isabelle Harrison makes free throw 1 of 2
- 4th Quarter83-97Isabelle Harrison makes free throw 2 of 2
- 4th Quarter85-97Teonni Key makes tip shot
Win probability
Above the line favours Chicago Sky, below favours Toronto Tempo.
Venue
- Wintrust ArenaChicago, IL
- Attendance8036
- OfficialsIsaac Barnett, Randy Richardson, Gerda Gatling
Elsewhere
- Austin has 25 points and 13 rebounds as the Mystics beat the Sun 79-69 for franchise-record 27th win
- Washington Mystics vs. Connecticut Sun - Game Highlights
- Lynx star Olivia Miles (calf) late scratch for game vs. Fever
- Stewart's 9-year no-tech streak snapped in Liberty's loss
- WNBA Power Rankings: What went right for every team this season
- Atlanta plays New York, seeks 30th victory of season
- Dallas faces Seattle after Bueckers' 30-point game
- Kahleah Copper scores 16 of her 31 in 4th quarter and the Mercury rally past the Wings 87-86