Chicago Sky guard Skylar Diggins will miss the remainder of the 2026 WNBA season due to an aggravated right knee injury, according to a team announcement made on Sept. 1, 2026. The organization stated that the decision was made to prioritize the veteran player’s long-term health following collaboration with medical staff, team doctors, and Diggins herself.
Season-Ending Injury Decision for Chicago Sky Guard
According to a release issued by Chicago general manager Jeff Pagliocca, the team is in full support of Diggins and wants to ensure her health is steadfastly prioritized. Diggins made a strong effort to return to the court this season and remained in constant communication with the organization throughout the recovery process.
Diggins signed a fully guaranteed two-year contract with the Sky during the offseason after spending two seasons in Seattle. She immediately secured a spot in Chicago’s starting lineup, opening 19 games before the coaching staff opted to transition her to a bench role in favor of Courtney Vandersloot. Before being sidelined, Diggins averaged 14.2 points, 4.9 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per game. She last played on July 3, contributing 19 points, four assists, and one block.
Roster Shifts and Player Frustrations
The transition to a bench role prompted public frustration from the 36-year-old guard. In July, Diggins told reporters that she had put her body on the line all year and done everything asked of her professionally. Cool.”
Sky coach Tyler Marsh addressed the roster adjustment by noting it was a coach’s decision, emphasizing that conversations between him and Diggins remained private and that she understood her value to the team. Shortly after the lineup change, Diggins was added to the injury report on July 7 ahead of a matchup against the Phoenix Mercury, citing the right knee issue. She never played for the team again.
Resource Challenges and Physical Toll
Alongside playing time concerns, Diggins pointed to physical discomfort exacerbated by a lack of proper facilities and recovery resources within the organization. According to the Chicago Sun Times, Diggins underwent surgery on her right knee in October. Throughout the season, she noted the difficulty of performing at an elite level without consistent access to recovery amenities like cold tubs, hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms, chiropractors, acupuncturists, and massage therapists.
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“I’ve been sacrificing my body for this team,” Diggins said in July regarding the physical toll and resource limitations. “Maybe it’s time to take a step back and see what’s going on to see if I need to continue to make those sacrifices without having the proper resources to play at an elite level.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Skylar Diggins miss the rest of the 2026 season?
According to the Chicago Sky, Diggins was shut down for the remainder of the 2026 season to focus on recovering from an aggravated right knee injury, with the team prioritizing her long-term health.
When did Skylar Diggins last play for the Chicago Sky?
Diggins last played on July 3, scoring 19 points against opponents before being sidelined with a right knee injury ahead of a July 7 game against the Phoenix Mercury.
What were Skylar Diggins’ averages during the 2026 season?
Before her season ended, Diggins started 19 games and averaged 14.2 points, 4.9 assists, and 3.2 rebounds per contest.
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