Chicago Sky Forced to Regroup After Rickea Jackson ACL Tear

The Chicago Sky’s promising start to the 2026 season took a significant hit this week when forward Rickea Jackson was ruled out for the remainder of the year with a torn ACL in her left knee.

The Sky announced Tuesday that Jackson suffered the injury during Chicago’s May 17 road victory over the Minnesota Lynx. An MRI later confirmed the tear and the team said Jackson will undergo surgery to repair the injury. Below are the updated futures odds for the Chicago Sky following the Jackson news. 

Chicago Sky Updated Futures Markets

Injury Ends Promising Start

Jackson’s absence already was evident in Chicago’s 99-89 home-opening loss to the Dallas Wings on Wednesday night. The Sky fell to 3-2 on the season and struggled at times to replace the versatility and defensive presence Jackson brought during the opening stretch of the year.

“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.”

Chicago Faces Difficult Adjustment Period

Chicago entered the season with major expectations for Jackson after acquiring the talented forward ahead of the 2026 campaign. The move was viewed as part of the franchise’s effort to rebuild. Jackson’s early season performances showcased her potential to be a franchise cornerstone capable of anchoring both ends of the floor. Before the injury, Jackson was averaging per game career highs of 18.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, 2.0 assists, and 1.8 blocks.

The season remains young but losing Jackson forces the Sky to adjust both their rotation and expectations. Chicago still possesses a talented core with veteran guard Natasha Cloud and rising frontcourt star Kamilla Cardoso. However, the team is still awaiting the season debuts of forward Azurá Stevens, guard-forward DiJonai Carrington, and veteran point guard Courtney Vandersloot, who are all sidelined with various injuries.

Photo Credit: AP/Amanda Loman