Illinois politicians honor WNBA champions Chicago Sky

CHICAGO - On Tuesday, Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois House of Representatives honored the WNBA champions Chicago Sky.

The Sky's coach talked about the long road to victory.

"This season was very special for us, because of everything that it entailed. We started off the season in May, and the pandemic limited fans. So we went from playing in front of nobody to playing in front of 11,000 in one season. And it just epitomized everything that we had been through. We started from the bottom and now we're here," said James Wade.

Female members of the House got together after the ceremony and took a picture with the WNBA championship trophy.

It was a special moment last week under a bright blue sky, with perfect weather to celebrate the first championship of the Chicago Sky.

"It’s incredible. Chicago Sky is my favorite team," said one fan. "So I just have chills every time I think about them winning and watching it."

Randall Davis and his family drove from Indiana to take part in the celebration.

"Absolutely. From South Bend … to support the city and make history," he said.

After a long parade from Wintrust Arena to Millennium Park, Sky players danced to a drumbeat as they got off the bus. Many were joined by family members.

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Mayor Lori Lightfoot also mingled with the team.

"It was just so exciting to see people coming out and really celebrating this team," Lightfoot said. "That has accomplished obviously an amazing feat. Bringing another championship home to Chicago."

But there was also something transcendent about the championship party. Many people brought their daughters for a reason.

"It’s good to see the women’s championship," said fan Angel Davis. "You see guys all the time … But for them to see the women doing just as well, it means a lot."

"I think it’s always good to have things to celebrate," added fan Polly Toner. "Especially celebrate women, and women in strong positions."