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Behind Sky rookie Kamilla Cardoso's journey across the world to Chicago and the WNBA
Kamilla Cardoso took a leap of faith. Leaving her home country as a young basketball player with hoop dreams earned her plenty of accolades, like two-time national champion, and mentors, like Dawn Staley. FOX 32's Tina Nguyen has Cardoso's story.
Marina Mabrey was a player the Chicago Sky wanted to build around under former head coach James Wade.
Mabrey is now on her way to Connecticut as the Sky traded her for two players and draft capital.
The Sky have acquired Rachel Banham, Moriah Jefferson, the 2025 first round draft pick and the rights to swap 2026 first round pick from Connecticut.
"Marina has made a significant impact over the past two seasons with the Sky behind her scoring ability, playmaking, competitiveness and commitment to the community," Chicago Sky General Manager Jeff Pagliocca said in a statement. "We appreciate all of her contributions to the organization and wish her continued success in the league."
The Sky are sending the Sun a 2025-second round draft pick in the deal.
This trade alters the immediate future for the Sky, as their best 3-point shooter is now off the roster. It also alters their long-term future, acquiring a first-round pick in next year's draft.
In Banham and Jefferson, the Sky acquire two veterans to help their young core.
Banham is averaging 4.8 points and 1.2 rebounds in 21 games this season.
Both Jefferson and Banham are also noted shooters, as Banham and Jefferson are career 36.9 and 39.6 percent shooters from 3-point range, respectively, in their careers.
The two will have the All-Star and Olympic break to mesh with the teams.
"We are very excited to welcome Rachel and Moriah to the Sky and we know that both will bring a ton of value to this roster this season," Pagliocca said in a statement. "Adding another essential first round draft pick in 2025 will strengthen our draft capital next year."
Chennedy Carter scores 34 and Angel Reese records another double-double as the Sky beat the Aces
Carter made her first five shots of the game and scored 14 in the first quarter.