Angel Reese, a key player for the Chicago Sky, has been sidelined since July 29 with a back injury, and a WNBA scout believes she should not return for the remainder of the season due to the risk of further injury and the team’s poor performance. With 12 games remaining, the Sky hold a disappointing 8-24 record and are expected to miss the playoffs once again.
Details on Reese’s Injury and Team Outlook
The Sky’s difficult season offers little motivation to rush Reese back onto the court. The scout told Dallas Hoops Journal,
“There’s no point for Angel to play again this season,”
adding,
“They (Chicago) should just sit her out for the rest of the season. What’s the point of her playing again? They’re not going anywhere. What if she comes back and re-aggravates her back or makes things worse? It’s too risky.”
Angel Reese’s Impact and Season Performance
Reese has been a standout performer for the Sky, starting 23 games in the current season and posting averages of 14.2 points, 12.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists, 1.5 steals, and 0.7 blocks per game. She has shot 44.4% from the field, 20% from three-point range, and 79% from the free-throw line. The LSU product has recorded 17 double-doubles and one triple-double so far.
Selected seventh overall in the 2024 WNBA Draft, Reese made a significant impact as a rookie with averages of 13.6 points, 13.1 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.5 blocks per game. Hailing from Maryland, she has quickly become recognized as one of the league’s premier rebounders.
Career Stats and Contract Information
Over 57 games with Chicago, Reese averages 13.8 points, 12.9 rebounds, 2.6 assists, 1.4 steals, and 0.5 blocks, though the Sky have only won 19 games in those appearances. She signed a four-year contract worth $324,383 last year and extended a multi-year endorsement deal with Reebok in October 2024.
Currently listed as day-to-day by the team, it remains uncertain if Reese will return before the season ends.
Significance of the Decision Going Forward
Given the Sky’s struggles and Reese’s injury, the decision to keep her sidelined could preserve her health for future seasons. Prioritizing recovery may be vital to her career longevity and overall team rebuilding efforts, especially since the playoffs are unlikely this year.