For Angel Reese and company, the last few games have been the worst of the season. Since the Chicago Sky returned from the Olympics break, they have barely won a game. The already slim chances of winning faded further when the team’s leading scorer, Chennedy Carter, was declared out of matchups. But not anymore!

On September 5th, Chennedy Carter was spotted by cameras after a practice session with the Sky. Dressed in her jersey alongside her teammates, the media asked her why she was there. She replied, “When I came back, I let them know, ‘Guys, I know I was out for a minute—longer than expected—but I’m back now.'”

This might just be the right time to make a return, as there is still a chance to improve the Chicago Sky’s standing in the tournament. “I’m ready to work with you guys. I missed you guys. I want to make a run. I’m here to do that. Let’s f***ing do that. Let’s turn the page, forget about these last couple of games, and focus on the next ones,” added Carter.

Carter brings exactly what Chicago needs most right now. With an average of 17.2 points per game, she can contribute significantly to the team’s offense which ranked 9th with  97.5 at the start of the month. Adding to this, she’s brimming with confidence. Her physicality during games is something opponents fear, but is this enough to secure the Sky a playoff spot?

Chennedy Carter makes a timely return

Having been sidelined due to illness for the last three games, concerns about her return are justified. Carter’s absence followed a practice session that was canceled due to sickness among players. Under doctors’ orders, she was placed under health protocols and suspended due to COVID-19. Since then, Coach Teresa Weatherspoon has been eagerly anticipating her return.

“We’re looking forward to having her back… That’s what we expect, and we’ll see when we get home and be able to get more hands-on with where she is. It’ll be great to have her back,” said Weatherspoon, referring to the upcoming game against the Sparks at Wintrust Arena on September 7th.

For Weatherspoon, Chennedy Carter is a savior. The Player of the Month for July, with an impressive 50% shooting accuracy from the field, Weatherspoon’s belief in her seems well-founded. This season, Carter has started in 15 of the 28 games she’s played. With the Sky struggling, having lost seven of their last eight games, Carter’s offensive prowess could be pivotal.

Just one playoff spot remaining now as Chicago Sky and Atlanta Dream, both tie the record for 11-22. The latter broke their 4-game losing streak a game before, winning four of their last ten games. But the Sky will take on lower-ranked teams for their next three games, four overall in their remaining 7 games. It’s only 3 for the Dream, on the other hand, with Washington going twice. A keen return for Carter indeed.