Angel Reese entered the new WNBA season with massive expectations, but just two games into the campaign, questions are already surfacing about her fit with the Chicago Sky – particularly alongside fellow frontcourt talent Kamilla Cardoso.
In the Sky’s home opener on Thursday night, the team was thoroughly outmatched by the defending champion New York Liberty, and Reese endured a particularly difficult night. Despite playing 27 minutes, she failed to make a single shot from the floor.
One possession in particular – where Reese was blocked multiple times but refused to pass out to an open teammate – drew criticism from fans and triggered speculation about a lack of team cohesion.
The moment that truly caught attention, however, was Kamilla Cardoso’s reaction. As Reese struggled through the play, Cardoso simply walked toward the other end of the court, showing no interest in the possession.
For many watching, the message was clear: something might be off between the Sky’s two brightest young stars.
Fans speculate on behind-the-scenes friction in Chicago
While it’s too early in the season to jump to conclusions, WNBA fans took to social media to voice their frustration and concerns over the team’s offensive structure – and Reese‘s prominent role in it.
“I’ve seen multiple instances of INSANELY bad (but understandable) body language by Kamilla Cardoso when Angel Reese is doing her Angel Reese thing,” one fan commented. “I’m sure she feels annoyed not getting the ball more. Trouble in paradise?”
Another user echoed that sentiment, suggesting the Sky might be prioritizing the wrong player. “Can we finally acknowledge Kamila Cardoso is better than the unnecessarily overhyped Angel Reese? It is what it is, folks. I hope Kamila can go to a decent team soon. She deserves better.”
Others took aim at the coaching strategy, claiming the offensive game plan seems forced and ineffective. “Everyone been saying it. The team tries to play through the wrong player that it makes it miserable for everyone else. Good coaches / players don’t force anything.”
One fan even went so far as to recommend Reese be benched to allow Cardoso more room to develop. “Don’t hate me but they are going to really have to sit Angel Reese for this season and get that game right. Let Cardoso develop right now in-game.”
Cardoso, the third overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, had a strong rookie season, averaging 9.8 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. However, like Reese, she hasn’t quite found her rhythm to start the new year.
Critics argue that the two players may not complement each other well on the court – both need touches in the paint, and their playing styles may clash.
While it’s still early in the season, the Sky’s 0-2 start has raised pressure on the coaching staff to find a more balanced offensive approach that leverages both Reese and Cardoso‘s strengths. As two stars expected to anchor the franchise’s rebuild, a lack of chemistry between them could derail long-term progress.
The Sky will look to bounce back this Sunday against the Los Angeles Sparks, where all eyes will be on how Reese and Cardoso operate together – and whether signs of frustration persist.
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