WNBA star Angel Reese has decided to take control of the future of the Chicago Sky, issuing an ultimatum aimed at transforming the franchise’s losing dynamic. After two seasons with a combined record of 23-61, the “double-double machine” made it clear that her patience has run out.
In a recent interview with the Chicago Tribune, Reese was blunt about her expectations for free agency and roster construction: “I’m not going to settle for the same s- we did this year. We have to get good players. We have to get great players. That’s non-negotiable for me.”
The player, who averages elite numbers with 14.1 points and 12.9 rebounds, emphasized that she is willing to do whatever it takes during the offseason to attract the best available talent to Chicago and build a competitive team that allows them to shine together and, in turn, puts her in position to fight for a championship.
A winter of uncertainty for the WNBA
However, Reese’s demands collide head-on with the league’s administrative reality. Currently, the WNBA and the players’ union (WNBAPA) are at a standstill in negotiations over the new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
According to reports from ESPN’s Alexa Philippou, the parties met this week in an attempt to break the deadlock, but there are still no new proposals on the table in a standoff that has dragged on for months.
The main conflict lies in the economic gap:
- The players’ proposal: The union is seeking 30% of the league’s gross revenue and a salary cap of $10.5 million.
- The league’s position: The WNBA prefers to maintain a salary cap of $5 million.
With fewer than 100 days before the 2026 season is set to begin, urgency is at its peak. Reese is not only pushing for better teammates, but also for fair compensation that reflects the sport’s growing media presence. When asked about the salary disparity compared to the NBA, Reese stated: “There’s nothing that we shouldn’t be receiving.”
Despite rumors of frustration, Reese confirmed in December her intention to remain with the Sky, as long as management responds to her ambition. The young star understands that her individual value is already proven, but she needs a competitive ecosystem to truly contend for a championship.
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