The 2025 WNBA season has begun turbulently for the Chicago Sky, who currently hold a troubling record of 2 wins and 6 losses in their first eight games. Under the leadership of new head coach Tyler Marsh, the team has struggled to find its rhythm on the court, and once again, hopes are being placed on Angel Reese.
Reese has experienced a dip in her performance in her second professional year. So far this season, she is averaging 10.1 points per game with a 35.8% field goal percentage and 12.1 rebounds-slightly below her rookie numbers from 2024, when she posted 13.6 points, 39.1% shooting, and 13.1 rebounds.
The situation worsened following a devastating injury to Courtney Vandersloot, the team’s all-time assists leader, who tore her ACL during a loss to the Indiana Fever. Her absence is a significant blow to a roster already struggling to find cohesion.
General manager issues direct call to Angel Reese
Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca broke his silence in an interview with the Chicago Sun-Times, making it clear that Reese’s role is crucial in reversing the team’s fortunes. While he acknowledged her inconsistent performance, he made a firm request: step up.
“That’s something that hasn’t happened yet, but it’s a must if we want to win,” Pagliocca said. “She’s had some great games, and others where she wasn’t at her best. But she’s our most versatile option on this roster. We need more production from her, and also for her to help in other areas of the game.”
The executive also praised Reese’s work ethic, noting that the young star is committed to both the team and her development.
“She’s been putting in the time. She’s been a great teammate. She knows we need to use her in different ways. We’re still trying to identify the role where she can be most effective in this system,” he added.
Pivotal showdown against Atlanta Dream
Reese and the Sky will get their next chance to turn things around on Friday night when they face Brittney Griner and the Atlanta Dream at the Gateway Center in Georgia. The team will then travel to Connecticut to take on the powerful Sun, in a grueling stretch of the schedule.
This critical moment tests not only the competitive spirit of the Sky but also the emerging leadership of Angel Reese, who now has the opportunity to become the cornerstone in the team’s rebuilding process. In a season marked by ups and downs, her growth could be the difference between another forgettable campaign or the beginning of something much bigger in Chicago.
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