On Tuesday, the Chicago Sky got the news that veteran guard Skylar Diggins will be sidelined for the remainder of the season as she continues to battle a lingering right knee injury.
A season full of potential and optimism has come to an abrupt end.
The Sky acquired Diggins right before the season began, along with a mix of savvy veterans and young guns. It seemed like the Sky were going to turn things around, but injuries to key talent and periods of inconsistency led to another losing season—and
a missed shot at a return to the postseason.
Diggins ended up playing in 19 games and averaged 14.2 points, 4.9 assists and 3.2 rebounds per contest.
After it was announced she was out for the remainder of the season, Diggins, age 36, spoke to the media in a virtual press conference. She addressed her path to recovery and what she’s looking ahead to next season, expressing that she expects to still be a member of the Sky.
Yet, Diggins also asked pertinent questions pertaining to the Sky organization.
She criticized the continued delay of the Sky practice facility, saying it is, in part, the “biggest frustration.” The Sky were supposed to have their long-awaited practice facility in Bedford Park this year, but logistical matters continue to push it back. The team has been practicing at the University of Illinois Chicago and Wintrust Arena throughout the year.
Diggins also mentioned the team leading the league in injuries and adjusting to coming off the bench instead of starting.
Even with all the struggles, Diggins took pride in seeing the Sky’s potential for the future, given that they had notable clutch moments this year.
But beyond the court, Diggins has had to deal with a painful divorce, coupled with injuries. Anyone who knows her knows she’s had to overcome challenge after challenge. Anyone who knows her knows that she confronts them head on and comes out of it stronger.
That is why she mentioned focusing on her overall well-being during this period, while keeping her love for the game intact. Here’s what Skylar said:
You try to show up and compartmentalize those things.
Obviously, as a competitor, that’s been my biggest frustration, missing out on these damn environments. I mean, it’s been electric in these arenas, but you guys know me, I’m competitive, you know, I love basketball and I hate missing out, you know, on these environments, on these games. You go in these arenas, and what I’ve been seeing from the fans, the enthusiasm, just the fire and intensity of the atmosphere, that’s something that I miss the most, and so that’s tough, because you use it as a release.
The game is a release to me. So I would never just voluntarily take myself away from the game.
Diggins looks forward to the day when she can get back to her sweet spot on the hardwood and do what she does best, emphasizing:
Being around my teammates, you know, that’s all helpful, but, you know, nothing’s like being on that floor, and you know, I look forward to the next time I can do that.
In mind, body and spirit, Skylar Diggins still lives out that holy trinity of athletic greatness.
