Connecticut Sun clinches victory against Chicago Sky on Mabrey's 24 points

UNCASVILLE, Conn. — In a nail-biting contest on Friday night, the Connecticut Sun triumphed over the Chicago Sky with a final score of 82-80. Marina Mabrey shone off the bench, contributing 24 points, including five 3-pointers, while Alyssa Thomas sealed the victory with two crucial free throws in the closing seconds. Thomas, who recorded a near triple-double with 12 points, 11 assists, nine rebounds, and four steals, was pivotal in the Sun's comeback. The game was tightly contested throughout, with Connecticut leading 45-35 at halftime. However, the Sky surged in the third quarter, outscoring the Sun 29-18, thanks in part to Angel Reese's impressive performance, which included nine points and eight rebounds. By the end of the third, Chicago had taken a narrow one-point lead, which they extended to 74-68 in the fourth quarter. Mabrey's timely 3-pointer and layup brought the Sun back into contention, narrowing the gap to 76-75. Despite Reese's strong showing, which included 13 points and a remarkable 20 rebounds, the Sky struggled to maintain their lead. The game saw several lead changes in the final minutes, culminating in a tense finish where Connecticut scored the last five points from the free-throw line. Mabrey's standout performance marked her fourth game with the Sun after joining from the Sky, while Chennedy Carter led Chicago with 19 points. The victory improved Connecticut's record to 21-7, while the Sky fell to 11-17.