In a surprising and disappointing move, the Chicago Sky announced Saturday that they have waived guard/forward DiJonai Carrington. The decision comes after the versatile defender appeared in only nine games this season following a lengthy recovery from foot surgery.
Carrington, signed in the offseason to bolster the Sky’s perimeter defense and intensity, missed the first 27 games of the 2026 campaign rehabbing a left foot injury sustained in the previous postseason. She made her long-awaited debut on July 30 against the Connecticut Sun, delivering nine points and a key block in a hard-fought win. Over the next stretch she provided sparks of energy, averaging 10.0 points and 3.3 rebounds while flashing the tenacious defense that earned her All-Defensive First Team honors and Most Improved Player in 2024.
Yet consistency proved elusive. Her minutes fluctuated, efficiency dipped in several outings, and a recent flare-up of the foot issue sidelined her again. With the Sky fighting for playoff positioning and roster flexibility needed, the organization opted to move on.
“This was an extremely difficult decision,” a team statement read. “DiJonai brought professionalism, competitiveness, and a fierce spirit to Skytown. We thank her for her efforts and wish her nothing but success moving forward.”
Carrington’s brief tenure leaves a bittersweet mark. Fans who cheered her return had hoped the high-energy wing would help stabilize a defense that has struggled at times. Instead, the Sky now open a roster spot as they navigate the final stretch of the regular season.
The waiver frees Carrington to pursue opportunities elsewhere in the WNBA. At 28, the former Connecticut Sun standout and recent Minnesota Lynx contributor still has plenty left to give. For Chicago, the move underscores the harsh realities of a competitive league where even promising acquisitions can be short-lived.
Sky supporters will watch closely to see how the team adjusts without one of its most dynamic offseason additions.
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