The Anticipation Surrounding Kamilla Cardoso’s WNBA Debut
As the WNBA season draws near, all eyes are on Chicago Sky’s rookie center Kamilla Cardoso and her journey to recovery from injury. Cardoso, who was selected as the fourth overall pick in the 2021 draft, has been sidelined with a foot injury since the preseason. However, the excitement is palpable as her debut approaches, especially with a highly anticipated matchup against fellow rookie sensation Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever on the horizon. Fans are eager to witness how Cardoso’s presence will impact the Sky’s performance and whether she can live up to the expectations surrounding her.
The Road to Recovery for Kamilla Cardoso
Chicago Sky rookie Kamilla Cardoso is set to make her WNBA debut against Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever. The team listed Cardoso as “probable/available” for the upcoming game, and reports indicate that she is expected to play. Cardoso has been sidelined for the first six games of the season after sustaining a shoulder injury on May 3 during a preseason match. Her return to the court will mark the first time she plays alongside teammate Angel Reese, adding an element of anticipation to the matchup scheduled to kick off at 12 p.m. ET in Indianapolis.
Cardoso’s Impressive Journey to the WNBA
Cardoso joins the Chicago Sky following an outstanding collegiate career at South Carolina, where she played a pivotal role in leading her team to an undefeated championship season and was named the Final Four Most Outstanding Player. Her impressive statistics, including averaging 14.4 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game in her senior year, demonstrate her prowess on the court. Despite the setback of her injury, Cardoso made a strong impression during the WNBA preseason, showcasing her skills with six points, four rebounds, and two blocks in just 13 minutes of play.
The Road to Recovery and Return to Action
Following her injury, Cardoso set June 1 as her target date for a comeback, as revealed in an Instagram livestream on May 21. Head coach Teresa Weatherspoon confirmed this timeline and noted that Cardoso had resumed practicing with the team. With her return to contact drills and being deemed “risk-free” by the coaching staff, Cardoso is poised to make a significant impact on the Sky’s performance in the upcoming games.
Looking Ahead: Potential Lineup Changes and Impact
As Cardoso prepares to make her debut, the Chicago Sky also listed Isabelle Harrison as “probable/available” for the upcoming game. Harrison, a forward returning from knee surgery, could provide additional depth to the team’s frontcourt rotation. With a starting lineup featuring players like Marina Mabrey, Dana Evans, Diamond DeShields, Elizabeth Williams, and Reese, the addition of Harrison and Cardoso as options off the bench could bolster the team’s chances of climbing the WNBA standings.
Rookie Standouts and Awards Contention
While Cardoso has been sidelined, Angel Reese has emerged as one of the standout rookies in the league, showcasing her skills and recording impressive statistics. As the race for the WNBA Rookie of the Year award heats up, players like Clark, Cameron Brink, and now Cardoso are vying for recognition. With her rebounding prowess and potential impact on the court, Cardoso has the opportunity to make a strong case for herself as a contender for the coveted award.
