The Chicago Sky are set to host the defending champion New York Liberty at Wintrust Arena on Thursday, May 22, 2025, in an early-season WNBA matchup that could offer a glimpse into the trajectory of both teams. The squads opened their seasons on opposite notes: New York handled their business with a strong win, while Chicago stumbled badly on the road. As they prepare to clash in this Windy City showdown, we dive into the matchup and offer our prediction on how things may unfold from a betting perspective.
Liberty vs. Sky: Game Preview
The Liberty opened the 2025 season in dominant fashion with a 92-78 win over Las Vegas. Breanna Stewart led the charge with 25 points, and new addition Natasha Cloud made an immediate impact by tallying 22 points and orchestrating a smooth offense that shot nearly 50% from the field. Meanwhile, the Sky opened their campaign with a disappointing 93-58 loss to Indiana. Despite a monster 12-point, 17-rebound effort from second-year forward Angel Reese, Chicago shot under 30% and struggled to find any offensive rhythm.
New York comes into this game with confidence and chemistry, bringing back its title-winning core. Stewart remains the team’s engine, contributing on both ends with scoring versatility, shot blocking, and intelligent passing. Cloud adds a new layer of speed and aggression, enabling open looks for perimeter threats such as Sabrina Ionescu.
Another key contributor in New York’s opener was Leonie Fiebich. The German forward, fresh off a championship run in Spain, provided 30 active minutes, showcasing the defensive versatility that earned her All-Rookie honors last year. Despite hitting just four three-pointers, the Liberty logged 92 points by attacking the paint and sharing the ball — a testament to their efficient half-court execution.
For the Sky, it’s still early in a rebuilding process. Reese remains a bright spot with her relentless rebounding and energy, but Chicago had little offensive help in their opener. Ariel Atkins chipped in 11 points, while veteran guard Courtney Vandersloot, re-acquired in the offseason, is still developing chemistry with her new teammates. The Sky’s 17 turnovers and -35 point differential against Indiana spotlight problems with spacing, defensive rotations, and transition play that must be solved quickly — especially against a polished opponent like New York.
Betting Outlook
– Spread: Liberty –11
– Total: 162
– Moneyline: Liberty –675 | Sky +490
Oddsmakers opened New York as heavy favorites, and the line remains firm after contrasting season debuts. The Liberty have covered the spread in 10 of their last 14 road contests. Chicago, by comparison, is 0-5 against the spread in its last five overall and just 1-5 against New York across the same span. The Under has hit in four of New York’s last five games and in five straight matchups played at Wintrust Arena — a reflection of New York’s defensive discipline and Chicago’s offensive struggles.
Liberty vs. Sky Prediction
For Chicago to keep this one competitive, they’ll need to dominate the glass, convert efficiently in half-court sets, and limit turnovers that fuel Liberty fast breaks. That requires a collective step forward from their backcourt and a near-perfect defensive outing to contain Stewart and Cloud. So far, that cohesion has yet to materialize.
On the flip side, New York looked every bit like a championship contender in their opener, showing depth, balance, and poise. Their frontcourt trio of Stewart, Jonquel Jones, and Fiebich presents matchup problems for a Sky team that leans heavily on Reese inside. Meanwhile, New York’s guards have a clear edge in experience and shot-making.
Unless the Sky deliver a hot shooting night and force New York out of rhythm, all signs point to another convincing win for the Liberty.
Final Pick: Liberty –11 and Under 162
Projected Score: New York 87, Chicago 70
Expect the champs to control the pace, earn second-chance opportunities, and keep Chicago’s inconsistent offense in check.
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- Source: SCCGManagement.com