Washington Put 110 on the Sky. Chicago's Defensive Standard Has to Change.

CHICAGO — The Chicago Sky's return to the court Thursday ended with one of their most difficult defensive performances of the season.

Washington defeated Chicago 110–80, delivering a 30-point victory and extending the Sky's losing streak to four games.

Shakira Austin led Washington with 20 points. Courtney Vandersloot scored 14 for Chicago.

The numbers tell a concerning story.

Chicago surrendered 110 points while producing only 80.

This wasn't a game in which the Sky simply struggled to score enough to overcome an otherwise competitive defensive performance.

Washington's offensive total created a margin Chicago was unable to close.

The defeat also came after Chicago's previous three games ended in losses to Indiana, Connecticut and New York.

During that stretch, opponents scored 113, 87 and 85 points.

Washington added another 110.

For the Sky, defensive consistency remains one of the most pressing issues facing the organization.

The team has shown it can compete when opponents are held to manageable scoring totals.

The problem is sustaining that standard across multiple games.

At 15–26, Chicago is running out of opportunities to finish the regular season with momentum.

Atlanta was next on Chicago’s schedule for September 19.

The Sky don't need another reminder that they can occasionally play competitive basketball.

They need a defensive performance that proves they can consistently do it.