In addition to her achievements on the court, Sykes was a member of the National Honor Society, student cabinet, and MSG Varsity Club.

Although she decided to accept the offer to play at Syracuse University, she also was sought after by Georgetown, Penn State, and Notre Dame.

She tore her ACL the first time on March 22, 2014 in the NCAA Tournament in Lexington, KY. After 10 long months of rigorous therapy and recovery, Sykes was able to return to play in the 2014–2015 season.

On January 4, 2015 (approximately 43 minutes into her season), Sykes tore her ACL again in her third game back against Notre Dame.

She signed a three-year deal that started with a base salary of $47,738 in the first year, jumps to $48,693 in the second, $53,563 in the third and $60,867 in a fourth-year option (typical rookie contract).

[7] Sykes played for Hapoel Petah Tikva in the Israeli Female Basketball Premier League in 2017.

[8] On September 23, 2024, it was announced that Sykes would appear and play in the inaugural season of Unrivaled, the women's 3x3 basketball league founded by Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart.