New York are stronger, but Chicago hold the line: prediction for Chicago Sky vs New York Liberty - 18.06.2026
Chicago Sky
New York Liberty
In the early hours of Thursday, the WNBA regular season heats up at Wintrust Arena in Chicago, where the Chicago Sky will host the New York Liberty. The visitors enter as favorites, but after Sky’s high-scoring clash with the Indiana Fever, the line doesn’t look so easy for a confident cover.
Chicago Sky: Defeat in a shootout, but a real shot at covering at home
The Chicago Sky fell to the Indiana Fever 106-114, but the game itself proved the team can run with a high tempo and find points even against a strong opponent. The Sky earned 38 free throws, converting 31, and got a breakout game from Sydney Taylor, who poured in 30 points in just 21 minutes.
Chicago’s issue is defense and rebounding. The team allows 87.8 points per game, and against Indiana, they let their opponents grab 46 rebounds, including 19 on the offensive glass. But at home—with aggressive free throw play and more careful ball control - the Sky have what it takes to stay in the contest long enough to cover the spread.
New York Liberty: The poise of a favorite and a defense that shuts things down fast
The New York Liberty made quick work of the Washington Mystics, winning 86-64 and showcasing nearly perfect balance on both ends of the floor. The Liberty shot 49.1% from the field, hit 11 of 26 from three-point range, and forced their opponents to a dismal 33.8% shooting night.
Liberty are 10-4 and look like one of the league’s most complete teams: 88.4 points per game, 36.6% from beyond the arc, and 86.1% from the free throw line. Their defensive numbers are especially impressive - New York gives up just 81.4 points per game and holds opponents to only 42.0% shooting.
Match facts
- New York Liberty beat the Washington Mystics 86-64, holding them to just 33.8% shooting from the field.
- Chicago Sky lost to the Indiana Fever 106-114, but scored 106 points and made 31 free throws.
- Liberty allow 81.4 points per game, while Sky give up an average of 87.8.
The favorite should win, but no blowout: prediction for Chicago Sky vs New York Liberty
New York Liberty are stronger in terms of roster, structure, and defensive quality. The visitors shoot better, are more consistent offensively, and have more ways to punish Chicago for lapses on the glass and defensive breakdowns. But a -7.5 spread on the road is risky. The Sky know how to get to the line, showed their offensive ceiling against Indiana, and at home have every chance to keep things close even if Liberty have the overall edge.
