CHICAGO — In what could become one of the most unprecedented moves in WNBA history, multiple league sources have confirmed that a group of former Chicago Sky stars — including Candace Parker, Courtney Vandersloot, and Allie Quigley — are quietly exploring the formation of a joint investment fund aimed at purchasing a minority ownership stake in the franchise.
The rumored move comes at a turbulent time for the Chicago Sky, who have faced weeks of internal chaos following Angel Reese’s cryptic social media posts and reports of multiple players seeking trades. Insiders describe the atmosphere around the team as “deeply fractured,” with players and management “barely aligned” on long-term goals.
According to one executive familiar with the talks, the initiative — informally dubbed the “Sky Legacy Fund” — would focus on “rebuilding culture and reconnecting the franchise with its roots.” The trio, who were part of the Sky’s golden era and championship run, reportedly see the buy-in as a symbolic reclamation of identity after what they view as a series of missteps by current ownership.
“This isn’t about money,” one anonymous source told The Athletic. “It’s about restoring trust, integrity, and the sense of family that used to define the Chicago Sky.”
While early discussions remain exploratory, the report has already sparked massive fan speculation online. Parker, who recently retired after a decorated career and transitioned into broadcasting and executive roles with Adidas, has not publicly commented on the rumors. However, her recent remarks during a TNT appearance — “You don’t lose the city that raised you” — have only fueled speculation that she may be preparing for a groundbreaking return to Chicago, this time as an owner rather than a player.
If the deal materializes, it would mark the first time in WNBA history that former players from the same franchise collectively invest to reclaim partial ownership of their team. Analysts believe this could set a new precedent for player empowerment and reshape how retired stars engage with the business side of women’s basketball.
Still, financial hurdles remain. Team valuation estimates place the Sky’s worth at around $90–100 million, meaning even a minority stake would require several million dollars in capital. Sources say the group has been in “early conversations” with several Chicago-based investors and athlete-driven venture firms to secure backing.
Meanwhile, league officials have reportedly been briefed on the idea and expressed cautious optimism. One insider close to the WNBA office said, “If this happens, it’s not just a win for the Sky — it’s a statement for the entire league. It’s the WNBA growing up.”
For fans, the thought of Parker, Vandersloot, and Quigley returning in executive roles feels almost poetic. The same core that brought Chicago its first championship could soon be responsible for rescuing it from its most uncertain era.
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