It’s officially the Kahleah Copper era in Chicago.
With the departures of Candace Parker and Courtney Vandersloot in free agency, and Allie Quigley’s decision to sit out the season, Copper is the only remaining cornerstone from the 2021 title-winning team.
The 2021 Finals MVP is under contract through the 2023 season, after which she will become an unrestricted free agent.
Copper, who averaged 15.7 points, 5.7 rebounds and 2.3 assists per game for Chicago last season, serves as the building block for coach James Wade’s 2023 squad. Azurá Stevens signed with the Sparks, and Emma Meesseman reportedly is unlikely to play in the WNBA due to international commitments, leaving the Sky’s roster thin.
So the 28-year-old is in a new chapter of her career. One where she has to process the departures of her teammates while also becoming the face of the franchise.
“It’s definitely tough,” Copper told reporters Monday. “Lots of emotions. It was kind of a whirlwind, but I’m recovering.”
Since free agency began, the Sky have signed Courtney Williams, Isabelle Harrison and Elizabeth Williams, while also retaining Ruthy Hebard, Dana Evans and Julie Allemand. But Copper is certainly the team’s best and perhaps most experienced…
