PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury host the Chicago Sky on Tuesday night, but Chicago’s starting lineup will look a little different than it did the last time the teams met.
On Monday, Chicago guard and former Mercury player Skylar Diggins took to Instagram to address being moved to the bench ahead of Tuesday’s game. Later, she confirmed to Chicago State of Mind that the decision had been made — coming off the bench for the first time since 2016.
May 15, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Chicago Sky guard Skylar Diggins (4) drives against the Phoenix Mercury in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
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“I’ve been putting my body on the line all year for this team,” Diggins said. “I’ve done everything that’s been asked of me. I’ve been great professionally. That’s the decision that’s made, and I gotta live with that.”
The veteran guard said she wasn’t told whether the move would be temporary or permanent.
“I have no idea where this is coming from or if it’s a permanent decision. I’d like it to be if that’s what’s gonna make us be the most successful at the end of the day.”
Sky head coach Tyler Marsh echoed that the move was his decision but didn’t elaborate on the reasoning.
“It’s my decision, and the conversations that me and Skylar had will stay between us,” Marsh said. “She understands how effective she can still be and how big of a piece that she is for us on this team.”
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For the Mercury, the timing of the shake-up adds another storyline heading into Tuesday night’s matchup, especially with it involving one of the franchise’s former stars.
Sky guard Skylar Diggins shoots against the Mercury during a game at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix on May 15, 2026. © Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Back at home, the Mercury have regained momentum, winning four of their last five games and putting together a three-game winning streak. Phoenix will look to continue that run while building on its earlier victory over Chicago this season.
Whether she starts or comes off the bench, Diggins remains one of Chicago’s biggest offensive threats. She’s averaging 14.2 points and 4.9 assists per game while serving as one of the Sky’s primary playmakers.
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Diggins only played 12 minutes in the clubs’ first meeting this season after coming out with an eye injury, but her return to Phoenix already carried added significance.
May 15, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury forward Natasha Mack (4) blocks the shot on Chicago Sky guard Skylar Diggins (4) in the first half at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Scuteri-Imagn Images
Now, in a new role and with lingering questions surrounding the lineup change, Tuesday’s matchup features yet another storyline for fans to keep an eye out for.
Phoenix and Chicago tip off on Tuesday, July 7, at 7 p.m.
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