Earlier this year, Angel Reese didn’t hesitate to call out what she saw as poor roster decisions after a disappointing run by the Chicago Sky.
Her blunt remarks were followed by an apology, but the tension between Reese and the organization hasn’t fully disappeared. Now, her future in Chicago is once again under scrutiny.
“I’d like to be here for my career, but if things don’t pan out, I might have to move in a different direction,” Reese told the Chicago Tribune.
That single line sparked immediate speculation. While the Sky‘s general manager insists the franchise views Reese as the centerpiece of its long-term plans, insiders acknowledge that her commitment is no longer guaranteed.
Gray-Miller on Reese’s importance
And if she were to leave, assistant coach Shimmy Gray-Miller believes the Sky would lose far more than just a star forward.
Speaking on the Locked On Women’s Basketball podcast, Gray-Miller emphasized the unique value Reese brings to the team and the league.
“If you lose Angel, how much of that do you lose? And who can you bring in in this league that’s going to generate the type of excitement, the type of revenue, the type of energy that Angel has brought the last two years? So, if you lose Angel, then you better get your money’s worth,” she said.
“Better get a great point guard, a dynamic scorer, maybe even a stretch four. You’ve got to get something for that because not just of what you’re losing with her on the court, her leadership, her IQ, her ability to defend, her impact on the glass, you’re going to lose that, but because of all the other stuff that you lose when Angel walks.”
Even with Chicago Sky‘s rough 10-34 record, the Sky continue to attract attention largely because of her presence. Her Reebok partnership, fashion appearances, and social media following have made her one of the most recognizable faces in women’s sports.
Statistically, Reese’s impact is undeniable. She recorded 23 double-doubles this season, trailing only Alyssa Thomas and breaking Tina Charles‘ record for the most double-doubles across a player’s first two WNBA seasons.
She also led the league in rebounds with an average of 12.6 per game, while scoring 14.7 points per contest, according to ESPN. Her run of 12 consecutive double-doubles set a new rookie record and solidified her reputation as one of the toughest players in the paint.
But beyond numbers, Reese has given the Sky something that doesn’t appear on a stat sheet-relevance. Her mix of charisma and competitiveness keeps fans engaged even during losing streaks. When she takes the floor, ticket sales rise, and when she speaks, headlines follow.
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