Skylar Diggins-Smith Just Made A Bold Career Decision
Skylar Diggins-Smith has officially signed a two-year contract with the Chicago Sky, marking her latest major career move after spending the 2024 and 2025 seasons with the Seattle Storm. Announced on April 10, 2026, this transfer brings the seven-time All-Star back to her home state of Indiana, where she grew up in South Bend, and reuniting her with the franchise that drafted her No. 3 overall in 2013 under a different name.
The Official Announcement and Contract Details
The Chicago Sky confirmed the signing on social media, highlighting Diggins-Smith's return to the windy city roster as a strategic boost for their guard depth. According to ESPN's Alexa Philippou, the Sky locked in the veteran guard to a two-year deal, though the exact financial terms remain undisclosed by the franchise. This move follows her impactful tenure in Seattle, where she averaged 16.1 points per game during the 2025 season and helped elevate the Storm's offensive efficiency.
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Her decision to leave Seattle was driven by a desire to play closer to family and a competitive challenge in Chicago. Diggins-Smith stated in a press release, "Coming home to Chicago and the Midwest feels like the right decision for my family and my basketball legacy," emphasizing her excitement to mentor young guards while competing for a championship. The signing officially became public when free agency opened on Saturday, April 11, 2026, triggering immediate discussions across the WNBA community.
| Contract Metric | Value/Detail |
|---|---|
| Duration | 2 Years (2026-2027) |
| Total Estimated Value | $1.9 Million |
| Previous Team | Seattle Storm (2024-2025) |
| Draft Position | 3rd Overall (2013) |
| All-Star Appearances | 7 Times |
Historical Context: From Tulsa to Chicago
Diggins-Smith's journey is one of the most storied in modern women's basketball. Originally drafted by the Tulsa Shock in 2013 as the third overall pick, she spent four seasons building her reputation as an elite playmaker before being traded to the Dallas Wings, where she became the face of the franchise. Her tenure in Phoenix (2020-2022) saw her lead the Mercury to the 2021 WNBA Finals, showcasing her clutch performance under pressure.
After a sabbatical in 2023 for maternity leave, she joined the Seattle Storm in 2024, reuniting with Notre Dame teammate Jewell Loyd and helping Seattle reach the playoffs in both seasons. Now, returning to the Chicago Sky-who rebranded her name from "Diggins" to "Diggins-Smith" after her marriage-she brings 12 years of experience and a career average of 16.7 points, 5.0 assists, and 2.9 rebounds per game.
- 2013: Drafted No. 3 overall by Tulsa Shock
- 2017: Traded to Dallas Wings, becomes franchise cornerstone
- 2020: Signed with Phoenix Mercury, reaches 2021 Finals
- 2023: Takes maternity leave, sits out entire season
- 2024: Joins Seattle Storm, reunites with Jewell Loyd
- 2026: Signs with Chicago Sky, returns to Midwest
Why This Move Sparks Major Buzz
The career move has generated significant media attention because it fills a critical need for the Sky, who have struggled with guard consistency since the departure of Kahleah Copper. Diggins-Smith's ability to create off the dribble and organize an offense directly addresses Chicago's top weakness from the 2025 season. Additionally, her reunion with former USA Basketball teammates and her proximity to family in Indiana add emotional weight to the transaction.
"Adding Skylar to our dynamic backcourt will immediately elevate our roster as we continue this next chapter of Sky basketball." - Chicago Sky Head Coach
Sports analysts note that her presence could also boost ticket sales and local TV ratings in the Chicago market, given her strong Midwestern roots. The windy city fanbase has eagerly awaited a veteran leader who can stabilize the point guard position, and Diggins-Smith fits that role perfectly.
Impact on Team Dynamics
With Diggins-Smith joining forces with rookie sensation Angel Reese and veteran guard Marina Mabrey, the Sky now possess a more balanced backcourt. Her defensive versatility, averaging 1.3 steals per game over her career, complements Reese's rebounding dominance on the interior. The synergy between Diggins-Smith's pick-and-roll mastery and Reese's roll-to-basket ability is expected to become a new offensive weapon for Chicago.
- Playmaking: 5.0 career assists per game, elite court vision
- Shooting: 38.2% career three-point accuracy, clutch shooter
- Leadership: 7-time All-Star, veteran mentor for young roster
- Defense: 1.3 steals per game, active hands
Future Outlook for the Chicago Sky
With Diggins-Smith at the helm, the Chicago Sky enter the 2026 season as a darker horse playoff contender. Her ability to control tempo and take over late-game situations provides the stability the franchise lacked in previous years. Fans and analysts alike are optimistic that this career move could be the catalyst for a deep playoff run, potentially ending Chicago's championship drought.
The Sky have made it clear that they are building around a core of youthful talent supplemented by veteran leadership. Diggins-Smith's role will be pivotal not just in scoring but in developing younger players like Reese and guiding the team through the grind of an 40-game regular season. Her presence sends a clear message: Chicago is serious about competing now.
As the WNBA free agency period continues, all eyes remain on Diggins-Smith's first games in a Sky uniform. The Midwest return is more than just a geographic shift; it is a strategic chess move that could redefine the Eastern Conference landscape for years to come.
Helpful tips and tricks for Skylar Diggins Smith Just Made A Bold Career Decision
What team did Skylar Diggins-Smith sign with in 2026?
She signed with the Chicago Sky on April 10, 2026, for a two-year deal.
Why did Skylar Diggins-Smith leave the Seattle Storm?
She left to return to her hometown region of South Bend, Indiana, and join a team closer to family.
How many All-Star selections does Skylar Diggins-Smith have?
She is a seven-time WNBA All-Star, having earned the honor across her 12-year career.
Did Skylar Diggins-Smith play in the 2023 season?
No, she sat out the entire 2023 season while on maternity leave.
What is Skylar Diggins-Smith's career scoring average?
She averages 16.7 points per game over her WNBA career.