Courtney Vandersloot’s return to the Chicago Sky feels like a homecoming, but it’s also a reminder of how sports narratives often overshadow individual legacies. Personally, I think what makes this particularly fascinating is how Sloot’s career has been both celebrated and underappreciated, especially when compared to Sue Bird. Bird, the WNBA’s darling, is often hailed as the greatest point guard of all time, and rightfully so. But if you take a step back and think about it, Sloot’s assist numbers are nothing short of legendary. She’s the only player to average double-digit assists in a season, a feat that Bird never achieved. What many people don’t realize is that Sloot’s impact goes beyond stats—she’s a class act, a leader, and a player who’s consistently delivered thrilling moments for diehard fans.
One thing that immediately stands out is how Sloot’s career has been defined by her ability to create for others. Her 18-assist game in 2020 wasn’t just a record; it was a statement. Ticha Penicheiro, another assist maestro, predicted Sloot would break her record years before it happened. That’s the kind of respect Sloot commands among her peers. But here’s the irony: despite her achievements, she’s often lived in Bird’s shadow. Bird’s longevity, scoring ability, and off-court charisma have made her the face of the WNBA. Sloot, meanwhile, has been the quiet architect of her teams’ success. From my perspective, this dynamic highlights a broader trend in sports—the flashy scorer often gets the glory, while the playmaker remains the unsung hero.
What this really suggests is that Sloot’s legacy isn’t just about numbers; it’s about her role in shaping the WNBA’s identity. Her return to Chicago, where she won a championship in 2021, feels symbolic. Chicago is where she met her wife, Allie Quigley, and where she’s spent the majority of her career. It’s home. But it’s also a challenge. At 37 and coming off a torn ACL, Sloot’s role is uncertain. Her recent performances have been a mix of flashes of brilliance and moments of struggle. In her first two games back, she dished out seven and eight assists, respectively, but since then, she’s struggled to hit those numbers consistently. This raises a deeper question: how do we measure the twilight of a great career? Is it about stats, or is it about the moments she creates and the impact she leaves?
A detail that I find especially interesting is how Sloot’s career has intersected with the WNBA’s evolution. She’s been a part of the league’s rise, from the ‘Wubble’ season in 2020 to the current era of record-breaking stars like Caitlin Clark. Sloot’s assist record was broken by Clark in 2024, but that doesn’t diminish her legacy. If anything, it underscores her role as a trailblazer. What makes this particularly fascinating is how Sloot’s style of play—selfless, team-oriented, and focused on creating opportunities for others—has influenced the next generation.
As we watch Sloot’s final chapters unfold, I can’t help but reflect on the underappreciated nature of her career. She’s received MVP votes in seven seasons, made multiple All-Star teams, and set records that may never be broken. Yet, she’s rarely mentioned in the same breath as Bird or Diana Taurasi. In my opinion, this speaks to a larger issue in sports—the tendency to undervalue players who don’t fit the traditional mold of a superstar. Sloot isn’t a high-scoring, highlight-reel machine; she’s a facilitator, a strategist, and a leader. And that’s exactly why she deserves more recognition.
Looking ahead, I’m hoping for more vintage Sloot moments. Whether she’s dishing out assists or mentoring the Sky’s young talent, her presence matters. What many people don’t realize is that players like Sloot are the backbone of the WNBA—they’re the ones who make the league what it is. So, as we appreciate her final seasons, let’s not take her for granted. Because when Sloot’s career is over, we’ll be left with more than just stats; we’ll be left with a legacy of selflessness, leadership, and excellence. And that, in my opinion, is what makes her one of the best to ever do it.
