The Chicago Sky's WNBA championship in 2021 made them the first WNBA franchise to win a title while "maintaining independent ownership throughout its existence,” according to Annie Costabile of the CHICAGO SUN-TIMES. The Sky “have work to do to stay competitive for the long term,” and “adding to their investor group is one place to start.” Sky principal owner Michael Alter said he has been “very pleased with the investor interest (we’ve received)," and the team is "reviewing things and trying to figure out what makes sense for us." Alter was in "preliminary talks over the summer with multiple interested parties," including Cubs co-owner Laura Ricketts. He “wouldn’t comment on if those conversations have advanced” since but reiterated that he is "not interested in selling the team.” Costabile noted seven of the 12 WNBA teams are "now independently owned," with two “recently investing in new training facilities.” From 2021 to 2022, the Sky saw a "partnership increase of 30%, contributing to a 54% revenue increase.” Full-season ticket sales “grew by more than 175%” from 2021 and 2022, partial-season tickets saw a "225% increase and total package sales increased by 118%.” The goal for 2023 is to "see a 20%-30% increase in ticket sales.” The Sky “aren’t open to discussing their profitability,” which “isn’t unique in the WNBA” (CHICAGO SUN-TIMES, 10/29).
