Angel Reese has been the driving force behind the Chicago Sky this season. Across her last eight outings, she’s averaged 19.1 points, 14.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, shooting at an efficient 52.7 percent from the field and 80 percent from the charity stripe.
Her performance earned her a second straight nod for the WNBA All-Star Game and a place on the Eastern Conference roster. However, her scorching run has come to a sudden halt – with the Chicago Sky confirming she won’t play against the Atlanta Dream due to a leg injury.
A Sky spokesperson revealed Reese is sidelined “with a leg injury” and unavailable for Wednesday’s matchup in Atlanta. This marks her first game missed this season.
This decision aligns with recent practice reports indicating she had been managing discomfort since late June, pushing through pain while appearing in every game until now.
Sky’s season at a turning point
With a 7-14 record, Chicago sits 10th in the WNBA standings – well outside playoff contention. Without Reese’s dominant presence, their ability to stay competitive against the Dream is uncertain. Her recent dominance was a rare bright spot amid a turbulent season under new coach Tyler Marsh.
Chicago’s frontcourt extends beyond Reese. They’ve built around her by acquiring players like Kamilla Cardoso, Ariel Atkins, Courtney Vandersloot, Kia Nurse, and Rebecca Allen – signals of a renewed win-now approach.
But releases and injuries, including Vandroolsloot’s ACL and Ariel Atkins also being out, have eroded depth and disrupted continuity. Reese’s absence compounds this already fragile roster status.
Self-monitoring this season has been a smart move. After playing 37 minutes and posting a 22-point double-double against Minnesota, the Sky elected to rest her for crucial recovery time before the All-Star break.
Their cautious approach acknowledges her importance and aims to preserve her stamina for the back half of the year.
Prioritizing Angel Reese’s health
Reese’s injury news comes as Chicago looks forward to a heavy slate of games before and after All-Star weekend. She’s expected to return in time for their rematch with Minnesota next Tuesday.
Beyond the current absence, Chicago’s management must balance short-term gains with long-term development. Reese, only 23, is proving to be a foundational piece – already showcasing the impact she can have in crunch moments.
Her growth in scoring efficiency and playmaking indicates she has the potential to lift the Sky into postseason contention. Maintaining her health is now paramount.
The timing of the layoff – between regular season play and the All-Star Week – suggests a strategic rest rather than a forced medical evacuation.
It also reflects a franchise-wide understanding: Angel Reese’s continued dominance is more valuable than any single game outcome. As the Sky navigate the rest of the season, Reese’s return could be the catalyst for a late surge.
But staying on the court will depend as much on recovery management as individual talent. If managed well, her health could reignite Chicago’s playoff push and cement her role as one of the WNBA’s elite.
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