The season gave us plenty to talk about: historic performances, from A’ja Wilson’s 30/20 game to Napheesa Collier joining the exclusive 50-40-90 club. Angel Reese added three more records to the list. And yet, the dominant debate wasn’t just statistical-it was personal. Will Angel Reese leave the Chicago Sky? That question has overshadowed her achievements and brought the team’s organizational health into focus.
Reese’s statements–“I’m not satisfied with what we did this year”-raised alarms. After that interview (September 3), the relationship became strained and Reese didn’t play again; trade rumors intensified. But several reporters and league voices insist on a key point: trading a star doesn’t fix deep-rooted issues in the front office.
Chicago Sky’s historical problems
The past weighs heavily. Voices like Erica Ayala have pointed out that Reese’s criticisms echo long-standing concerns about Sky’s management. It’s not the first time a top player has clashed with the organization; the team’s history includes forced exits and public complaints about treatment and infrastructure.
Candace Parker, a local icon and champion, shared that during her time with the Sky she didn’t even have her own locker or access to proper facilities to train independently. That testimony, along with others, fuels the narrative: something in the team’s culture and resources hasn’t been up to standard.
What happened with Sylvia Fowles and Elena Delle Donne?
Sylvia Fowles-drafted second overall-spent six dominant seasons in Chicago but demanded a trade in 2014 to compete for championships; she ended up in Minnesota and won two titles. Elena Delle Donne, meanwhile, asked to leave for personal and health reasons, and was traded to Washington in 2017.
These episodes reveal a pattern: talented players seeking other organizations to grow under better conditions, whether competitive or personal.
Other voices-Alicia Jay, Kahleah Copper, Gabby Williams, Courtney Williams-have added uncomfortable details: training at the YMCA, lack of lockers, daytime rooms, and having to cover overnight stays themselves. In a league with limited time for team practices, facilities matter as much as the coaching staff.
Will the new facility be enough to keep Reese?
In July 2024, the Sky announced an investment: a facility of over 40,000 square feet with two courts, private areas, a content studio, and a kitchen-a $38 million project aimed for completion in 2026.
It’s a major step, but the question remains: will it be enough to rebuild internal trust and retain a figure like Angel Reese? She herself said that good facilities attract talent. In the end, the decision will depend on whether the investment is accompanied by real changes in culture, management, and player treatment.
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