Despite facing heavy backlash for her antics in the past, Chennedy Carter’s career has made quite the turnaround. The 25-year-old is now one of the key players for the Teresa Weatherspoon. The Sky star missed the last four games, without a clearance to play as per the WNBA’s Health & Safety Protocols. This was a huge blow for the franchise, who are currently fighting for the last playoff spot against the Atlanta Dream and the Dallas Wings. However, the guard made a much-awaited comeback yesterday against the Los Angeles Sparks and seemed to be in good spirits, putting her feelings for her fans in the spotlight.

Thanking them, Carter tweeted, “i know wintrust loves too see me coming. i love you guys too. you made my heart melt yesterday stop it.” Chicago loyalists were sure to give Carter a warm welcome to the court, especially when the franchise needed it the most. The team had a 0-4 record in her absence, which explains the fans’ reaction. It is believed that she could help, along with the superstar rookies, help the team to bag some much-needed wins.

In addition to that, the franchise’s loyalists also gave Carter a standing ovation as she left the Wintrust Arena, further winning the team’s leading scorer’s heart. “For me, it means a lot… I haven’t been at this place, in this moment in my career…Not only the fans but also my teammates and coaches. Making me feel loved, valued. It’s an amazing feeling,” the guard mentioned during the post-game press conference before taking to social media to add more to her sentiments.

She tallied 15 points on 6-15 shooting with 9 rebounds and 7 assists. She missed a triple-double by a hair on the night. Despite setting foot on the floor after some time, Carter was steady, registering zero turnovers. Her performance on the night set the home ground on fire, as fans expressed their loyalty to her. Sky followers flooded her social media handles, wishing her upon the return.

Carter was the much-needed missing piece for the team, especially with their postseason appearance hanging in the balance. They went on a 7-game losing streak before finally ending it against the Sparks, reigniting hope.

Can Chennedy Carter help the Chicago Sky make the WNBA playoffs?

Despite Angel Reese’s record-breaking outings, the Sky is finding it hard to break down their opponents. Their record currently stands at 12-22, with six games to go. Previously, Chicago has had troubles against some opponents that they will face in the final stretch. These include the Minnesota Lynx, Phoenix Mercury, and the Connecticut Sun. Chennedy Carter’s side has failed to register a single win against these teams this year.

Along with Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, Chennedy Carter has been the standout player for the Sky this year. She leads the team in scoring, averaging 17.1 points a game, despite starting just 16 games for the team. The star rookie duo, Reese and Cardoso, are putting on a show on defense. Reese has been making a name for herself as one of the best rebounders while averaging 13.1 boards a game. Cardoso, who has recently picked up the pace, also averages 1.4 blocks a game.

Sky will be facing the Dream for the tiebreaker as well. That could well and truly decide their playoff fate for the year. Since winning the 2021 championship, the Illinois-based franchise’s biggest success was reaching only the semifinals in the following year. The LV Aces knocked them out in the first round in 2023. Thanks to Chennedy Carter’s return, the team will have their best scorer available.

The 25-year-old is leading the league in fast break points and is certainly making a good case for the Most Improved Player award. She excels in isolation offense, often making plays for herself. That could be what the Sky needs right now, and Carter could surely try to take them to the playoffs with Reese and Cardoso’s help.

Stay tuned for more such updates and join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.