Angel Reese urged to increase contributions for Chicago Sky as the team finds itself near the bottom of the WNBA standings with a disappointing 2-6 record. The Chicago Sky hoped this year would mark a playoff return, but their performance so far has shown glaring weaknesses, especially on defense and in overall team impact.
Chicago Sky’s Current Struggles Highlight Defensive and Scoring Issues
The Chicago Sky are facing a tough season, sitting third from last due to a series of hard losses and disappointing performances. Their defense has been especially poor, allowing the highest number of points in the league. In terms of point differential, they rank second to last, and their two victories have come only against the bottom-ranked Dallas Wings. Without those, their record would be the worst in the competition.
Star forward Angel Reese has experienced inconsistencies, including some low-scoring games that have put additional pressure on the team. Even though Reese has recorded double-doubles at times, the Sky have struggled to translate her strong individual performances into team victories. The franchise recognizes that breaking this pattern is essential to turning their season around.
“That’s something that has yet to come together, but it’s a necessity for us to win. She’s had some great games, and she’s had some games like everybody else that haven’t been her best. But she’s our best chance at versatility on this roster. We need more production out of her, but we need her to help us in other ways, too.”
—Jeff Pagliocca, Chicago Sky General Manager
Expectations Rise for Angel Reese to Expand Her Role
Chicago Sky GM Jeff Pagliocca has openly expressed the team’s desire for Angel Reese to broaden her impact beyond her traditional role. Unlike last season, when Reese primarily focused on rebounding and scoring around the basket, the Sky want her to contribute more dynamically across the court.
The addition of Tyler Marsh as a coach was intended to help develop Reese and fellow post player Kamilla Cardoso into standout athletes. While Marsh’s influence has yet to fully show results, the team remains committed to cultivating their skills as a foundation for future success, as reiterated by Pagliocca.
Reese’s Versatility and New Responsibilities Are Key to the Team’s Strategy
Pagliocca highlighted that Reese has been putting in significant effort and has earned praise as a supportive teammate willing to embrace new roles. The Sky aim to utilize her versatility more effectively, exploring how she can best contribute on offense and defense beyond her usual patterns.
“She’s been putting the time in. She’s been a great teammate. She knows we need to use her in a variety of ways. We’re still trying to pinpoint the most advantageous part of that.”
—Jeff Pagliocca, Chicago Sky General Manager
This includes Reese taking on elements of a point-forward role, a position she has not played previously. With starting point guard Courtney Vandersloot sidelined for the remainder of the season, the team may lean more on Reese to bring the ball upcourt, guiding plays and setting up scoring opportunities. Though this transition is challenging, it represents a critical part of the Sky’s plan to reshape their offense.
Angel Reese’s Determination to Make a Lasting Impact
Angel Reese understands the expectations placed on her and acknowledges that developing this expanded role will require time and persistence. She remains confident that her hard work will pay off, even as the team’s current results remain disappointing.
“I put my head down and work every single day — I don’t give up on anything…I critique myself the most. I know it’s going to translate…I’m just going to put my head down and work, and I know the results will show.”
—Angel Reese, Chicago Sky Forward
The 23-year-old LSU alum maintains belief in the coaching staff’s vision and the process they have outlined. Reese expects that as she refines her game and teammates grow accustomed to her evolving playstyle, the wins will begin to accumulate. The Sky face upcoming matches against weaker teams, presenting an opportunity to start reversing their fortunes on the court.
Building Toward a Potential Turnaround
The Chicago Sky are clearly signaling that Angel Reese is central to their chances of recovery this season. With pressing needs in defense and scoring balance, the team looks to maximize Reese’s versatility and leadership on the floor. Despite a rough start, they hope the adjustments and Reese’s emerging point-forward role will spark momentum.
As the season progresses, how well Reese adapts and contributes across multiple facets of the game will likely determine the Sky’s fate. The organization and fans alike are watching closely, eager to see if their talented forward can translate potential into consistent success for a franchise desperate to reestablish itself among playoff contenders.