The Chicago Sky’s 2025 season ended on a tumultuous note, leaving fans in a state of uncertainty. But here's where it gets controversial... Star forward Angel Reese was suspended, and the subsequent silence from her and other key players during exit interviews sparked rumors of a potential departure from Chicago. Was Reese about to join the growing list of stars seeking an exit? Were the whispers of an irreparable relationship with the organization true? These questions hung in the air like a storm cloud over the franchise.
Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca attempted to quell the speculation, insisting the team had ‘moved on’ from the suspension. Yet, doubts persisted. And this is the part most people miss... While Pagliocca’s words aimed to reassure, they didn’t fully erase the lingering concerns among fans and observers alike.
However, a recent development may finally ease those worries. Speaking from USA Basketball’s women’s national team December camp—where she was one of just 17 invited players—Reese confirmed her plans to return to Chicago for the 2026 WNBA season. ‘I’m under contract, so yes, I plan on returning to the Sky,’ she stated matter-of-factly. ‘I’m continuing to talk to [head coach] Tyler [Marsh] and building that relationship with [general manager] Jeff [Pagliocca] and Tyler.’ Her response wasn’t effusive, but it didn’t need to be. It was a clear, positive sign that the Sky and their franchise player are, at least for now, on the same page.
Here’s where it gets even more intriguing... Reese’s commitment to Chicago isn’t the only good news. She also revealed that her back injury is fully healed, allowing her to participate fully from Day 1 at the USA Basketball camp. This is a significant milestone for Reese, who has long set her sights on the 2028 Olympics. She expressed appreciation for the rigorous coaching style of national team coach Kara Lawson, currently the head coach at Duke University. ‘I like being coached hard,’ Reese said, highlighting her dedication to growth and improvement.
Lawson, who hadn’t worked with Reese prior to the camp, was quick to praise the young star. ‘She’s great,’ Lawson remarked. ‘Great personality, works hard in practice, wants to be good, coachable—all the things you’d expect from a good young player.’ Reese’s performance at camp was part of her senior national team debut, alongside other standout players from the 2024 WNBA draft class, including Caitlin Clark, Paige Bueckers, and Cameron Brink.
If Reese makes the final cut, her next major competition will be the 2026 FIBA World Cup in September. But here’s the question that’s bound to spark debate... With her injury healed and her commitment to Chicago reaffirmed, is Angel Reese poised to become the cornerstone of the Sky’s future success? Or will the challenges of the past season continue to cast a shadow over her relationship with the organization? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
