Chicago Sky GM Confirms Angel Reese’s Future Despite Tensions
After a turbulent end to the season, Chicago Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca expressed confidence in keeping franchise player Angel Reese on the roster. On March 15, 2024, Pagliocca stated, “until I hear differently, that’s the direction we’re going to move,” reaffirming the team’s commitment to the two-time All-Star despite recent challenges.
Reese, selected as the No. 7 pick in the 2024 draft, faced suspension for one-half of a game following comments made to the Chicago Tribune that the franchise deemed “detrimental to the team.” Coach Tyler Marsh confirmed that this decision came from the top down within the organization. Ultimately, Reese did not participate in the subsequent games, as the team listed her with a back injury, raising concerns about her relationship with the franchise.
Pagliocca acknowledged the difficulties, stating, “Angel is an ascending young talent in this league who’s had two very, very good seasons here in Chicago.” He emphasized the importance of moving forward, noting that Reese had addressed her teammates and expressed a desire to put the incident behind them.
The Sky’s struggles this season were evident, as the team went 1-13 without Reese, who led the league with an average of 12.6 rebounds per game and achieved 23 double-doubles while also contributing an average of 14.7 points and 3.7 assists.
Fan Discontent
Frustration surrounding Reese’s situation and the overall direction of the franchise reached a boiling point during the Sky’s season finale. Some fans displayed signs reading “Free Angel” and “Sell the Team,” while others chanted “Fire Jeff.” The Sky’s performance over the past two years has been disappointing, with a record of 13-27 in 2024 and a tie for the worst record in the league at 10-34 in 2025.
Many fans are disappointed with the franchise’s trajectory, particularly after witnessing multiple star players depart since the Sky’s 2021 championship. Reese echoed these sentiments in her comments to the Tribune, stating, “I’m not settling for the same s— we did this year,” and emphasized the need for the team to acquire “great players” in the offseason.
Pagliocca responded to the fan discontent, admitting that the chants were “hard to hear.” However, he reiterated his commitment to improving the team’s situation, noting a greater commitment to resources than in previous years. “I’m appreciative that we have passionate fans that want to see winning,” he said, adding that he has the full support of ownership.
Injury Challenges and Future Plans
The Sky’s roster faced significant challenges due to injuries, particularly with the loss of point guard Courtney Vandersloot to an ACL tear just seven games into the season. Pagliocca remains optimistic about Vandersloot’s recovery, asserting, “If she’s healthy, she’s going to be playing basketball here.”
Reese also expressed concerns regarding the team’s point guard situation, remarking, “We can’t rely on Courtney to come back at the age that she’s at.” She suggested the need for a younger, experienced player who can compete for a championship.
Pagliocca acknowledged that the organization cannot depend solely on Vandersloot to play extensive minutes and expressed belief in her capabilities. “No one’s taking her recovery more seriously than her,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Pagliocca emphasized the need to improve the roster to restore the Sky’s status as a contender in the WNBA. Currently, the team has only four players under contract for 2026, as most veterans are on expiring deals in anticipation of a new collective bargaining agreement.
As the franchise navigates these complexities, the commitment to fostering a winning culture remains at the forefront of Pagliocca’s agenda.
