The Chicago Sky defeated the Minnesota Lynx on Sunday, but they lost Rickea Jackson in the process.
A little over a month ago, Chicago acquired Jackson from the Los Angeles Sparks in exchange for two-time All-Star and Olympic gold medalist Ariel Atkins. It was a clear sign that Chicago wanted to rebuild around young talented players like Jackson, who averaged 14.7 points, 3.2 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game last season.
Unfortunately, Jackson suffered a torn ACL against the Lynx this past weekend. She appeared in four games for the Sky, averaging 18.0 points and 4.8 rebounds per contest.
"We're devastated that Rickea suffered this injury, but we are confident she will make a full recovery," Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca said. "Rickea was playing at an All-Star and All-Defensive level early in the season. We are certain she was primed for a career year. Our world-class medical staff will work hard with Rickea, who is one of the toughest players in the league, to get her back on the court."
© Bob Kupbens-Imagn Images.
Fans are heartbroken for Rickea.
"This is heartbreaking. She was having a fantastic start to the year," one fan said. "Get well soon Rickea."
"Wow. That sucks. She didn't even get to play in front of the Chicago home crowd," a second fan pointed out.
"This sucks but hopefully you can have a speedy recovery," a third fan wrote. "She is my favorite player and I don't think she gets the recognition of how great of a player she is."
"I hate that for Rickea. Not just because she was having a great start to the season, but because I know ACL injuries can be depressing and lonely," another fan said. "I pray that she has people beside her to uplift her and keep her happy."
There's no question Jackson has the talent to be a superstar in the WNBA. We're just hoping this injury doesn't stunt her development.
