Chicago Sky and Indiana Fever fans are already marking their calendars as the WNBA released its 2026 schedule. The two rival squads are set to meet three times this season.
Coming off a 10-34 finish, the franchise’s worst since its inaugural season, the Sky look to bounce back in a big way. Adding salt to the wound, Chicago went 0-5 against Indiana last year.
The new season tips off on May 8. Fans are particularly excited to see All-Star forward Angel Reese square off against Caitlin Clark again. The pair recently suited up as teammates for Team USA at the FIBA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Tournament.
Fans will not want to miss what the Sky has planned for their Aug. 8 showdown.
Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5) reacts to a flagrant foul from Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22).Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
(Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
The WNBA is bringing back its theme games for the 2026 season. The league designed the initiative to enhance the fan experience and connect with communities through culture-focused celebrations.
The Sky announced their themed game lineup in an Instagram post.
“our 2026 theme games are here 🌤️ swipe to see what we have coming this season ➡️,” the caption read.
The Sky’s slate features several notable themes this year. Pride, Women’s Cancer Awareness and Marvel Super Hero Day are among the highlights.
One theme stands out above the rest. Chicago hosts the Fever on August 8 at the United Center.
Due to overwhelming demand driven by Clark’s arrival, the game moved to the Chicago Bulls‘ home court. The Sky designated that matchup as their “Chi Neighborhoods” theme game.
Full details have not yet been released. However, the theme will likely spotlight Chicago’s vibrant, culture-rich neighborhoods. According to a study by the University of Chicago, the city consists of 77 communities. Within them are over 200 distinct neighborhoods. Some of the more popular neighborhoods include Lincoln Park, Logan Square, West Loop, Wicker Park, Old Town and Hyde Park, to name a few.
The Sky’s “Chi Neighborhoods” theme night is expected to give the city’s diverse communities proper representation on a big stage.
That backdrop adds another layer of intensity to an already heated Sky-Fever rivalry.
Related: Caitlin Clark’s Strong Reaction to Indiana Fever Legend
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Apr 2, 2026, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.