For a struggling Chicago Sky, Chennedy Carter has turned out to be a blessing. Playing alongside rookies Kamilla Cardoso and Angel Reese, Carter’s trajectory has been on the rise ever since she joined Sky’s roster. However, with free agency approaching, a question looms over Sky’s leading scorer—her future with the team. As of now, though there have been hints and attempts at assurance, a confirmation awaits. Until then, Carter has found herself some distraction elsewhere.

According to Carter’s recent Instagram story, she’s been immersing herself in lifting weights this offseason. “Grind Morning” reads the text on a picture of the Sky’s guard showing off her abs. It’s a secondary activity Carter has taken up while preparing to join Wuhan Shengfan (WCBA) in China this offseason.

For Carter, saying goodbye to the Sky wouldn’t be easy if it were to come to that, especially as the franchise has helped her find a new lease on life. The 2020 WNBA draft No. 4 pick by the Atlanta Dream has jumped from one team to another over the years. But with the Sky, she shined, averaging her career-best 17.5 points, while shooting 48.7% from the field alongside 3.5 rebounds across 20 games.

“She was very valuable. Obviously, she’s a player that can impact the game at the highest level in this league. She’s a player we’re going to make sure we keep an eye on and engage when it’s time,” GM Jeff Pagliocca stated. And if they make a move, Carter is willing to reciprocate.

Chennedy Carter awaits a response

When she left for China, the Chicago Sky guard wrote, “Leaving Chicago today, it’s bittersweet” in a post. Playing in the Chinese league isn’t new territory for her. The 25-year-old was on the Heilongjiang Dragons’ roster last year, and it appears that her performances then have earned her a spot on the Chinese roster again. Moreover, she’s not the only one joining the Chinese league. Her teammate, Kamilla Cardoso, will also be there, playing for the Shanghai Swordfish.

However, now that she hasn’t fully committed to the Sky, despite mentioning her willingness, she may have been left feeling bittersweet. “I love being here. I enjoyed the season. It was fun. It was special. If Chicago wants me back, I’m interested in coming back,” Carter had said last month during the exit interview.

Her foot injury, which caused her to miss the last four games of the season, could also be another reason. Nonetheless, the closing of one chapter in the WNBA marks the beginning of another in the WCBA. So as she awaits to hear from a team that makes her feel “wanted,” physical improvement is something Carter will be focusing on.