Chicago Sky head coach Tyler Marsh was ejected during Saturday’s game against the Connecticut Sun, expressing sharp criticism of officiating as his team navigates a challenging season.
The ejection occurred early in the second quarter when Marsh confronted referees over a missed foul on forward Elizabeth Williams by Connecticut’s Aaliyah Edwards.
Assistant coach Tanisha Wright assumed responsibility for the bench as Marsh was removed, with players, including Angel Reese, intervening to prevent further escalation.
In the postgame press conference, Marsh emphasized his frustration with officiating throughout the season.
He acknowledged the difficulty of observing the game from the sidelines while simultaneously defending his players.
“It was hard being in the back and not being out there for the team,” Marsh explained.
“I felt like I was letting them down… other half of me was like, I had to. It’s been egregious all year.”
Marsh further highlighted a pattern of perceived bias, noting a lack of accountability for officials compared with scrutiny directed at players and coaches.
The ejection capped a tumultuous stretch for the Sky, who have struggled throughout the season and fell to a 9-27 record following the 94-84 loss.
Despite trailing by 20 points early in the contest, Chicago mounted a late rally, reducing the deficit to four points in the fourth quarter. Kia Nurse contributed a season-high 19 points, but turnovers and the impact of Marsh’s removal hindered the team’s ability to complete the comeback.
Season challenges and key performances
Marsh joined the Sky as head coach in November 2024 after serving in player development and assistant coaching roles with the Toronto Raptors, Indiana Pacers, and Las Vegas Aces, contributing to championship teams.
His first season as head coach has been marked by significant challenges, including injuries to key players such as star guard Courtney Vandersloot, who suffered a season-ending ACL tear.
Amid the team’s difficulties, Angel Reese has emerged as a consistent performer. Returning to play under restrictions, Reese recorded her 45th career double-double, tying a franchise record. Her contributions have been a bright spot for the Sky despite the team’s broader struggles.
Reese also addressed the uncertain future of the roster.
“I’m sure that all of us aren’t going to be on this team next year together… we’ll lose some teammates, have some trades happen,” she said.
“So just enjoy each other, because I really did enjoy this team this year, and these players, and these vets… The game can be taken away from you at any time, so just maximize it.”
The Sky‘s season reflects the challenges of managing injuries, integrating returning players, and navigating frustrations with officiating.
Marsh‘s ejection underscores tensions within the team as it seeks stability and consistent performance. Moving forward, Chicago faces an offseason likely to include roster adjustments and strategic planning to strengthen its competitiveness for the next campaign.
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