Jul 26, 2024 - Business

Chicago Sky will build $38 million dollar practice facility

Carrie Shepherd

Rendering of a long gray building with yellow and blue lines on it that reads Sky Town in the middle with a parking lot in front of building. — Rendering: Courtesy of Chicago Sky

The Chicago Sky is planning to build a new WNBA performance center just outside the city.

Why it matters: The 2021 champions are finally getting a professional-grade facility with amenities in line with what their male colleagues in the NBA have enjoyed for decades.

Driving the news: The WNBA team announced Thursday they will break ground this fall on the $38 million facility in southwest suburban Bedford Park.

Reality check: Since 2011, the Sky has practiced at Sachs Recreation Center, a park district facility in suburban Deerfield, nearly 30 miles from Wintrust Arena where the team plays home games.

Bedford Park is about 10 miles from Wintrust on Chicago's near South Side, which will allow players to travel more easily between the enhanced practice center and the arena.

State of play: The practice facility will be over 40,000 square feet and include two regulation-sized WNBA courts, player lounges, an advanced training room with strength and conditioning equipment, a private chef's kitchen and locker rooms with personalized lockers.

Between the lines: The new investment comes at the same time as WNBA's growing popularity, driven in part by star rookie Angel Reese, and increased ticket prices.

Yes, but: WNBA player salaries are still shockingly lower than their male colleagues.

What's next: The Sky expects to break ground this fall and open by Dec. 2025 for the 2026 WNBA season.

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Chicago Sky will build $38 million dollar practice facility

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