The Latest Breaking News from Kahleah Copper

The teams combined to commit 54 fouls, but it was the Sky (12-15) who maintained an edge in late-game composure and secured a 104-96 victory.

“Hopefully, we opened some eyes to how good it can be and how beneficial it can be for each organization and, most importantly, the community,” Wings president and CEO Greg Bibb said.

“I feel like I’ve been preparing the last eight seasons to be able to be in a role like this and feel OK doing it,” Loyd told the Sun-Times.

To create some separation between themselves and the bottom four teams in the league, the Sky need more cohesion in moments of adversity.

Copper scored 37 points in the Sky’s 107-95 loss at Wintrust Arena.

“You’re going to go through little phases where you’re not playing your best basketball, but you can’t attach your self-worth to it,” Mabrey said.

Former Sky assistant Awvee Storey rejoined the team as director of basketball, strategy and personnel after four seasons on former Sun coach Curt Miller’s staff in Connecticut beginning in 2019.

“Every person wants to play in their hometown, whether it’s playing there for college, whatever it is.” said Loyd, who played high school ball at Niles West. “There’s always a different feel. . . . At the same time, I’ve only known the Seattle Storm my whole [WNBA career].’’

The Sky have not commented on when and if they will separate the role of coach/general manager, which is currently being fulfilled on an interim basis by Emre Vatansever following James Wade’s abrupt departure for the NBA.