📌 Chicago Sky Lineup Change vs Lynx: Allen Benched, Onyenwere Steps In
The Chicago Sky lineup change vs Lynx sparked headlines as the team, struggling in the 2025 WNBA season, made a bold move ahead of Sunday’s game against the league-best Minnesota Lynx (16-2). With a 5-11 record and playoff hopes fading, head coach Tyler Marsh continues to adjust his rotation to find winning chemistry.
🔁 Sky’s Recent Struggles Prompt Frequent Lineup Changes
Following the season-ending injury to star point guard Courtney Vandersloot on June 7 against the Indiana Fever, the Sky have been forced to shuffle their starting lineup frequently. In fact, Sunday’s game marked the fifth different starting lineup in just 10 games.
Second-year center Kamilla Cardoso’s overseas absence only added to the instability, prompting Coach Marsh to get creative with his game-time decisions.
❌ Rebecca Allen Benched After Nine Straight Starts
In a significant move, veteran forward Rebecca Allen was benched after starting nine consecutive games. Despite being a consistent presence, Allen’s numbers — 5.8 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 1.3 assists over 20.5 minutes — may not have met the team’s evolving needs.
This marks the first time Allen will come off the bench since June 7, underscoring Marsh’s willingness to tweak his rotation in search of a spark.
✅ Michaela Onyenwere Gets the Start
Fifth-year forward Michaela Onyenwere took Allen’s place in the starting lineup, making her second start in three games. Though Onyenwere averages modest stats (4.3 points, 1.1 rebounds, 1.1 assists in 12.6 minutes), her energy and versatility could be key for a Sky team in transition.
Previously, she started in place of Cardoso — now she’s tasked with filling Allen’s shoes against the top-seeded Lynx.
🧠 Coach Tyler Marsh’s Strategy: Flexibility and Opportunity
Coach Marsh’s decisions reflect a tactical shift toward lineup flexibility and player development. With the postseason looking unlikely, giving different players starting opportunities may serve the dual purpose of improving performance and preparing for the franchise’s future.
📊 Chicago Sky 2025 Season So Far
- Record: 5-11 (12th in WNBA)
- Recent Form: 2 wins in last 3 games
- Injuries: Vandersloot out for season
- Lineups Used Since June 7: 5
🧐 What This Means for the Sky Moving Forward
This lineup change signals a clear intent: no spot in the rotation is guaranteed. If Michaela Onyenwere can seize this opportunity, she may become a more permanent fixture in the starting five.
As the Sky continue to rebuild and experiment, more changes could be on the horizon — especially with the playoffs increasingly out of reach.
📌 FAQs
Q: Why was Rebecca Allen benched against the Lynx?
A: Due to recent performance levels and lineup experimentation, Coach Marsh opted to start Michaela Onyenwere instead.
Q: How many different lineups have the Chicago Sky used this season?
A: Since June 7, they’ve used five different lineups in 10 games.
Q: Who is starting in place of Allen?
A: Michaela Onyenwere started in place of Allen in the game vs the Lynx.
🔚 Conclusion:
The Chicago Sky’s decision to bench Rebecca Allen highlights their ongoing search for consistency amid a challenging season. With lineup changes continuing, every game is a new opportunity for players like Michaela Onyenwere to make an impact.
