The start of the 2026 WNBA season had given Chicago Sky fans plenty of reasons to be happy and optimistic. After securing a (86-79) victory over the Minnesota Lynx on Sunday, the Sky improved to 3-1 on the season.
But just when momentum seemed to be building, devastating news arrived like dark clouds over Chicago.
Rickea Jackson Injury Update: Sky Star Out for the Year With Torn ACL
On Wednesday morning, the Sky officially announced that star Rickea Jackson suffered a torn ACL in her left knee and will miss the remainder of the 2026 season.
Rickea Jackson underwent an MRI that revealed a left torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), an injury she sustained in the May 17 game against Minnesota. Jackson will miss the remainder of the 2026 WNBA season and undergo surgery to repair the injury.
We’re with you every step… pic.twitter.com/8WauK7o29D
— Chicago Sky (@chicagosky) May 19, 2026
“We’re devastated that Rickea suffered this injury, but we are confident she will make a full recovery,” Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca said. “Our world-class medical staff will work hard with Rickea, who is one of the toughest players in the league, to get her back on the court.”
The injury occurred on Sunday night. With 5:24 remaining in the first half, Jackson planted her left leg following a drive to the basket shortly after bumping into Nia Coffey. She immediately went down before being escorted to the locker room.
The devastating news immediately prompted strong reactions across the WNBA world.
“Wishing the best for her recovery and mental health, this sucks so bad,” wrote one user.
“Horrible man. Sending her so much love,” one influencer commented.
wishing the best for her recovery and mental health this sucks so bad😔 https://t.co/lbHlNOur2V
— ana (@salt3dwounds) May 19, 2026
The saddest part of this story is how well Jackson was playing before the injury struck. Through four regular-season games, she averaged 18 points and 4.8 rebounds per game.
Many around the WNBA believed this could finally be the season where she fully established herself as one of the league’s brightest young stars. But now, the basketball world is talking about rehab timelines and recovery.
“Rickea was playing at an All-Star and All-Defensive level early in the season. We are certain she was primed for a career year,” Pagliocca said.
“Rickea your ceiling is unmatched. I know you’re going to come back better than ever,” wrote one influencer.
Rickea your ceiling is unmatched. I know you’re going to come back better than ever. https://t.co/6i8aSjtx09
— Quin (@Quinthox) May 19, 2026
“prayers up to her, wishing her a safe loving & speedy recovery to kea 😕🙏🏽 I wish her all the best,” another user wrote.
“GOD WHY?! she’s had such a tough year… she doesn’t deserve this,” added one user.
The Sky are currently 3-1, which is tied with the New York Liberty for the best record in the Eastern Conference, but losing Jackson is a huge blow.
