Who Is Sydney Taylor? Chicago Sky Guard Explodes for 23 Points in Preseason
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Sydney Taylor Is "All the Way Turnt Up!" — 25-Point Playoff Performance Has Chicago Sky Fans Buzzing
Sydney Taylor 25 points, Sky vs Mercury, WNBA playoffs 2026, Chicago Sky win, Mercury defeat — This is the story breaking right now. But if you weren't watching the Sky vs. Mercury matchup last night, you missed the Sydney Taylor show. The former Louisville standout scored 25 points, grabbed 8 rebounds, and dished 5 assists as the Chicago Sky defeated the Phoenix Mercury 77-66 in the first round of the WNBA playoffs. And she did it with a swagger that had the entire Sky bench erupting every time she touched the ball.
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If you weren't watching the Sky vs. Dream preseason matchup earlier this year, you missed the first sign of what was coming. Sydney looked like she was in mid-season form, torching the nets for a game-high 23 points in just 17 minutes of action. She was aggressive, confident, and "all the way turnt up" from the jump. Whether she was creating her own shot or catching fire from deep, the Atlanta defense simply had no answer for her scoring outbursts.
Now, in the WNBA playoffs 2026, she's doing it on the biggest stage. Coming into training camp on a mission, the former Louisville standout showed exactly why she belongs on a WNBA roster. Watching her play with that kind of chip on her shoulder is exactly what Chicago fans love to see. She's playing for a spot, playing for her dreams, and playing like she's got everything to prove.
Sky Take Control in Third Quarter
The Sky took control of the game in the third quarter, outscoring the Mercury 28-15. Taylor was instrumental in the run, scoring 12 points in the quarter. The Mercury were led by Brittney Griner's 20 points but could not overcome the Sky's defensive pressure. The Sky held the Mercury to just 38% shooting for the game.
"I'm just trying to help my team win," Taylor said after the game. "We're not done yet. This is just the beginning." It's about respect, it's about the grind, and it's about showing up when the lights are bright. Sydney Taylor didn't just show up; she took over.
Sky High in Chicago
The Chicago Sky are seeking their first championship since 2021. The Mercury are looking to advance past the first round for the first time in three years. If last night was "tape" for the coaches, Taylor just handed them a masterpiece. The Sky bench was erupting every time she touched the ball, and for good reason.
In a game full of stars and high-profile returns, Sydney Taylor made sure everyone left the arena talking about her performance. The Sky bench was erupting every time she touched the ball, and for good reason. She's a bucket-getter, a spark plug, and the heart of this Sky team.
What's Next
Game 2 is scheduled for Sunday. The winner of the series will face the Las Vegas Aces or Dallas Wings in the semifinals. If Sydney Taylor keeps playing like this, the Sky might just be on their way to another championship.
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Shop Now on Amazon →FAQ: Sydney Taylor and the Sky's Playoff Run
Q: How many points did Sydney Taylor score?
A: Sydney Taylor scored 25 points in the Chicago Sky's 77-66 victory over the Phoenix Mercury in the first round of the WNBA playoffs.
Q: What was the final score?
A: The Chicago Sky defeated the Phoenix Mercury 77-66 in Game 1 of the first round.
Q: Who led the Mercury in scoring?
A: Brittney Griner led the Mercury with 20 points.
Q: When was the Chicago Sky's last championship?
A: The Chicago Sky won their last championship in 2021.
Q: What is the series status?
A: The Chicago Sky lead the series 1-0. Game 2 is scheduled for Sunday.
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