Much of the attention surrounding the Chicago Sky’s matchup against the Atlanta Dream centered on the Angel Reese’s return to Windy City. Reese was selected by the Sky with the seventh overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft and quickly became the face of the franchise.
Over two seasons, she developed into one of the league’s premier rebounders and most recognizable stars before being traded to Atlanta during the offseason.
While Reese’s homecoming rightfully dominated the pregame headlines, it was Kamilla Cardoso who stole the show early.
Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
The former No. 3 overall pick came out aggressive from the opening tip, finishing the first quarter with six points on a perfect 3-for-3 shooting, along with two rebounds and one assist. Cardoso continued to establish herself inside during the second quarter and concluded the half with 11 points.
The strong start also came with a significant personal achievement. During the game, Cardoso hit a tough shot over Reese to reach the 1,000-point milestone for her WNBA career, another marker in what has been a steady rise since entering the league in 2024.
Like Reese, Cardoso arrived in Chicago as part of the Sky’s highly regarded 2024 draft class. The Brazilian center has since developed into one of the league’s most productive young frontcourt players thanks to her efficient scoring, rebounding and rim protection.
Entering Tuesday’s contest, Cardoso was averaging 12.2 points, 9.6 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.7 blocks in 11 games.
Her growth has been one of the few bright spots during an injury-plagued start to the year for the Sky. Cardoso recently recorded a career-high six blocks against the Washington Mystics on May 2 and has emerged as the centerpiece of Chicago’s frontcourt.
