The Chicago Sky will face the Phoenix Mercury on August 3 without their standout player Angel Reese, who has been sidelined by a persistent back injury. Reese’s absence has been confirmed ahead of the game, continuing to impact the Sky’s already challenging 2025 WNBA season as they hold a 7-20 record.
Reese’s back problems have caused her to miss multiple recent games, including matches against the Seattle Storm and Indiana Fever. Despite a strong performance on July 29 against the Washington Mystics where she posted 22 points and 13 rebounds, her return was brief, as she missed the following game on August 1 versus the Golden State Valkyries. The Sky fell 73-66 in that contest despite Elizabeth Williams’ 15-point contribution.
Chicago head coach Tyler Marsh addressed Reese’s status during a pregame interview before the August 1 game.
Kind of continued. You know her back tightened up after the Washington game. So again, more precautionary stuff there. So she’ll be out tonight,
—Tyler Marsh, Head Coach, Chicago Sky
The cautious approach toward managing Reese’s injury reflects the team’s intent to avoid further setbacks. ESPN’s injury report confirms that she has been ruled out of tonight’s clash against Phoenix due to this recurring issue.
Additional Injuries Strain Chicago Sky’s Roster Depth
Besides Reese, the Sky are grappling with several other players sidelined by injuries, significantly affecting their lineup flexibility. Michaela Onyenwere is listed as questionable, while Hailey Van Lith is out with an ankle injury. Ariel Atkins remains day-to-day with a leg issue, and longtime guard Courtney Vandersloot is absent with a knee problem.
Injury Updates on Ariel Atkins and Angel Reese per Coach Marsh: Atkins went through her 2nd day of team activities today and is still day-to-day. Reese’s back tightened up after the Mystics game so she is being held out for precautionary reasons.
—Chicago State of Mind Sports, Twitter Update August 1, 2025
These injuries leave Chicago short-handed as they prepare for a difficult game against the Mercury, who enter the contest well-rested and in good form.
Key Sky Players Must Elevate Their Performance Against Phoenix
The Phoenix Mercury currently hold a 16-11 record and come into tonight’s game with a healthy and confident squad. Led by stars Alyssa Thomas and Kahleah Copper, the Mercury have established a solid rhythm and are expected to capitalize on the Sky’s depleted lineup.
With Angel Reese unavailable, Chicago’s hopes rest heavily on Kamilla Cardoso and Kia Nurse, who have displayed consistent scoring during the season. Cardoso is averaging 12.5 points per game, while veteran Nurse contributes around 7.4 points each outing. Their ability to step up is critical if Chicago hopes to challenge Phoenix on their home floor at Wintrust Arena.
The game is set to tip off at 6:00 p.m. Eastern Time, and the Sky will be looking to overcome their injury challenges in a crucial test against a strong opponent.