Kamilla Cardoso and the Chicago Sky have experienced a challenging beginning to the 2025 WNBA season, dropping their first two games by wide margins against the Indiana Fever and New York Liberty. The team‘s early difficulties have sparked debate amid discussions on how to best support Cardoso’s development and improve the Sky’s performance.
Podcast Criticism Highlights Cardoso’s On-Court Effort and Role
During a recent episode of the Chicago Sky Central podcast, host Haize and two other guests analyzed the team’s struggles and focused on Cardoso’s role inside the paint. The podcast, dedicated to covering all updates related to the Chicago Sky and WNBA news, featured sharp critiques from Haize and another podcaster regarding Cardoso’s engagement during games.
“Not when she’s playing soft bro. You have to earn those oppourtunities,” Haize said.
“I don’t think they want to give her the ball,” another podcaster said. “They don’t trust her.”
The discussion centered on whether Cardoso deserves more touches in the post, with some participants expressing doubts about her physicality and effort level. These comments come as the Sky attempt to find a winning formula early in the season.
Comparing Rookie Season Performances and Current Challenges
Last year, the Chicago Sky ended the 2024 season with a disappointing 13-27 record, but there were signs of promise, particularly from young players like Kamilla Cardoso and Angel Reese. Cardoso’s rookie campaign saw her average 9.8 points and 7.9 rebounds over 32 games, while Reese posted 13.1 points and 13.6 rebounds.
This season, however, Cardoso’s statistics have dipped to 6.5 points and 5.5 rebounds per game. Reese, meanwhile, is averaging 7.0 points and 14.5 rebounds, though she recorded just two points in the latest outing on Thursday. Both second-year players face pressure to quickly improve their production as the Sky seek a turnaround.
Growth Opportunities Through Experience for Cardoso and Reese
Despite the rough start, it is crucial to recognize that both Cardoso and Reese remain in the early phases of their WNBA careers. Injuries limited their playing time during their first season, and they have yet to experience a full, uninterrupted campaign at the professional level.
During the offseason, Reese opted to stay in the United States by participating in the Unrivaled league, while Cardoso traveled to China to develop her skills further. Cardoso expressed optimism about applying the lessons learned overseas to improve her game this season.
“We practiced a lot so the practice has helped me and just getting a lot of minutes,” Cardoso said. “Playing a lot I realized things that I can do. Things that I did in China that I can do in the league.”
The Chicago Sky’s progress this year depends heavily on the growth of these young players. Continued development, combined with the experience gained abroad or in other competitive settings, offers a pathway for Cardoso and Reese to help elevate the team‘s performance as the season unfolds.
Looking Ahead to Upcoming Challenges
The Sky will return to the court on Sunday to face the Los Angeles Sparks, providing another opportunity to shift the momentum after a difficult start. The team’s ability to integrate its young talent, including Cardoso’s role in the post, will be essential in shaping their trajectory for the remainder of the season.