The relationship between Angel Reese and Chicago Sky went through turbulent moments at the end of the WNBA season, but all signs point to the young star remaining a key part of the team. Jeff Pagliocca, the franchise’s general manager, made it clear that there are no plans to move her and that the goal is to look ahead.
In recent weeks, the relationship between Reese and Sky’s front office was marked by controversy. After making critical statements to the Chicago Tribune, in which she called for strengthening the roster for the future, the organization decided to suspend her for the first half of the game against the Las Vegas Aces. Additionally, the player, who was also dealing with an injury, did not participate in the remainder of the regular season.
Nevertheless, her return in the final home game was met with an ovation from Chicago fans. One fan even drew attention on social media by wearing a shirt with the message “Free Angel,” a symbol of the support the forward still enjoys in the city.
Sky’s commitment to keeping Reese
With tensions running high, many believed Reese had played her last minutes in Chicago. However, Pagliocca was emphatic in stating that the plan is to continue with her:
“Angel is a rising young talent, with two very solid seasons here. We went through a tough moment, but we’ve moved past it. She spoke with her teammates, did so publicly, and we’re moving forward as a team,” the executive told ESPN.
The general manager also highlighted the ongoing and productive conversations he maintains with the player and her camp, reinforcing the idea that both sides are seeking stability for the future.
Reese calls for reinforcements to compete in 2026
The root of the conflict arose when Reese, speaking candidly, asked the organization to improve the roster and attract high-profile free agents for the 2026 season. “I’m not okay with repeating last year’s results. We need great players and that’s non-negotiable,” she told Julia Poe of the Chicago Tribune.
Although her words caused internal friction, Reese apologized to her teammates privately and also did so publicly, aiming to close the chapter.
With the WNBA playoffs approaching, Reese and Chicago Sky are already thinking about what’s next. While recent tensions raised doubts, everything indicates that the franchise trusts her potential as a leader and her ability to guide the team into a new competitive phase.
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