In the first matchup of the season between the two teams, the Chicago Sky lost 102-87 to the Los Angeles Sparks on Friday, July 10 at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. 

Facing a high-powered Sparks offense, the Sky struggled to contain their frontcourt down the stretch in a fast-paced, physical interconference matchup.

Despite an aggressive offensive push through the first three quarters, Chicago couldn't build on the momentum of Tuesday's 77-66 win in Phoenix against the Mercury. Los Angeles protected its home court by leaning heavily into its interior strength and strong ball movement.

While the final result didn't swing in Chicago's favor, the Sky offensive unit displayed balanced chemistry throughout the night with five players in double-digit scoring. It was veteran guard Natasha Cloud directing the offense, dishing out a team-leading seven assists against just one turnover in her 27 minutes of action.

The starting lineup was efficient, primarily with Kamilla Cardoso delivering 15 points, eight boards and two assists in 28 minutes. She shot 66.7% from the field and went a perfect 3 of 3 from the free-throw line, marking her ninth time shooting over 50% in her last 10 games, the most efficient stretch of her professional career.

Azurá Stevens anchored the frontcourt with Cardoso, scoring 10 points and eight rebounds in a season-high 30 minutes.

Starter and rookie guard Sydney Taylor also logged 15 points. With her eighth double-digit scoring game of the season, she now ranks second among all rookies in double-figure games. Taylor continues an incredible month of play, pushing her average to 17.6 points over the last 30 days.

The Sky were able to maintain a close game throughout the first three quarters with their depth off the bench, largely led by Gabriela Jaquez. Jaquez dropped 15 points on 6 of 12 shooting in just 20 minutes. Guard Jacy Sheldon added 10 points on four field goals, while Aicha Coulibaly chipped in seven points.

Although Chicago’s offense had a strong showing, they struggled on defense to stop a Sparks offense that also placed five players in double figures, and were outscored 29-17 in the fourth quarter. Eleven-time All-Star Nneka Ogwumike led Los Angeles with 25 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists, while Dearica Hamby, Rae Burrell, and former Sky guard Ariel Atkins added 17 points apiece. Erica Wheeler chipped in 15 points and eight assists to secure L.A.'s home victory.

The Sky will look to finish out their road trip with a win against the Dallas Wings July 12 at 6 p.m. CT inside American Airlines Center.