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          Social reaction: Candace Parker, Courtney Vandersloot lead Chicago Sky to first-ever WNBA title

          • ESPN.com
          Oct 17, 2021, 10:07 PM

          The Chicago Sky have defeated the Phoenix Mercury 80-74 to claim the first WNBA championship in franchise history. The Sky overcame a 14-point deficit in securing their first ring.

          Chicago's victory brings Candace Parker's return to her hometown full circle with the second ring of her prestigious career. Her presence bolstered the foundation laid by the Sky over recent years thanks to head coach James Wade, 2021 All-WNBA first team selection Courtney Vandersloot, Allie Quigley and Kahleah Copper.

          The Sky's Finals run energized a hoops city celebrating its first championship since Michael Jordan led the Chicago Bulls to their sixth title in 1997-98.

          Chicago fans couldn't help but share the good vibes across social media after seeing the Sky secure a ring after making the Finals with a record at or below .500 for the second time in team history (2014). The 2013 Atlanta Dream are the only other franchise in WNBA history to do so.

          The path to any championship is often long and filled with challenges. In Chicago's case, winning the WNBA title marks a key turning point since the franchise entered the league as an expansion team in 2006.

          With ample excitement to take in, let's examine the good vibes around another championship making its way to the Windy City.

          Soaking it all in

          Candace Parker earns ring No. 2 and her flowers

          Kahleah Copper's journey comes full circle

          ESPN Stats & Information contributed to this story.