Chicago Sky and Angel Reese: A Strained Relationship
After a challenging end to the season, the Chicago Sky and their franchise player, Angel Reese, have found themselves in a complicated situation. General Manager Jeff Pagliocca addressed the matter on Friday, stating that “until I hear differently, that’s the direction we’re going to move, is that she’s on the roster.” This declaration suggests that despite the recent issues, the team remains committed to having Reese as part of its future.
Reese, selected as the No. 7 pick in the 2024 draft, was suspended for a half game after making comments to the Chicago Tribune that the franchise deemed “detrimental to the team.” According to coach Tyler Marsh, this decision came from the top down. Reese did not play in the final games of the season, with the team citing a back injury as the reason. This led to concerns about the state of the relationship between the franchise and one of its key players.
Pagliocca emphasized that he believes the situation has been resolved. He noted that Reese spoke to her teammates and publicly apologized, and the organization has moved forward as a team. “Angel is an ascending young talent in this league who’s had two very good seasons here in Chicago,” he said. “She’s a special player, and I have good conversations with her daily.”
The team’s struggles this season were evident, as they went 1-13 without Reese. She led the league in rebounds per game (12.6) and double-doubles (23), while also pacing the team in scoring (14.7 points) and assists (3.7). The absence of such a key player clearly impacted the team’s performance.
Fan frustration over the Reese situation and the overall direction of the franchise reached a boiling point during the season finale. Some fans held signs reading “Free Angel” and “Sell the Team,” and there were chants calling for Jeff Pagliocca’s dismissal. This discontent reflects deeper issues within the organization, which has struggled in recent years.
Over the past two seasons, the Sky have experienced significant challenges, finishing with a 13-27 record in 2024 and firing head coach Teresa Weatherspoon after just one season. The 2025 season ended with the team tied for the worst record in the league at 10-34. These results have raised questions about the franchise’s long-term strategy and investment.
Reese expressed similar concerns in the Tribune article, stating she is not settling for the same results and emphasizing the need for the team to acquire great players this offseason. If the team does not make significant improvements, she may consider moving on from the franchise.
Pagliocca acknowledged the fan backlash but reiterated his commitment to improving the team. “I’m appreciative that we have passionate fans that want to see winning,” he said. “We feel the same. And I know I have full support from ownership.”
The team also faced a series of injuries this season, including the loss of point guard Courtney Vandersloot to an ACL tear early in the season. Pagliocca expects Vandersloot, a major free agent signing, to return in 2026. “If she’s healthy, she’s going to be playing basketball here,” he said.
In the Tribune article, Reese expressed concern over the team’s point guard situation, noting that relying on Vandersloot, who is 36, might not be sustainable. She suggested the team needs a younger player with experience and a history of competing for championships.
Pagliocca stated that the team recognizes it cannot rely on Vandersloot to play 38 minutes each game, but they still have “a lot of belief in her.” He added that Vandersloot is taking her recovery seriously and is determined to prove herself.
While 2025 was a step forward in building a better culture, Pagliocca emphasized the need to improve the roster as the Sky aim to become contenders again. The team currently has only four players under contract for 2026, with most veterans on expiring deals in anticipation of a new CBA. This highlights the importance of strategic planning and investments in the coming years.
