Sky GM says Angel Reese on team ‘until I hear differently’

The recent statements made by Chicago Sky General Manager Jeff Pagliocca regarding standout player Angel Reese have generated significant attention within the WNBA community and beyond. Following a turbulent end to the Sky’s 2025 season, Pagliocca affirmed, “until I hear differently, that’s the direction we’re going to move, is that she’s on the roster.” This remark comes in the wake of a challenging season marked by internal strife and external calls for change.

### A Tumultuous Season

The Chicago Sky’s recent performances have been a far cry from their championship-winning season in 2021. Over the past two years, the team has struggled significantly, finishing with poor records (13-27 in 2024 and 10-34 in 2025) that prompted a wave of discontent among fans and stakeholders alike. The situation escalated further with Reese’s half-game suspension due to comments deemed detrimental to the team, which wrapped up a season devoid of success and cohesion.

Reese’s status as the No. 7 pick in the 2024 draft makes her arguably the cornerstone of the franchise. Her impressive statistics speak for themselves—leading the league in rebounds per game with 12.6, boasting 23 double-doubles, and contributing 14.7 points and 3.7 assists per game. The ramifications of her absence were stark; the Sky managed only one win in her absence, highlighting her value both on and off the court.

### The Communication Breakdown

Pagliocca noted a dialogue with Reese following the incident. The player publicly apologized and addressed her teammates privately, working towards mending the rift between her and the organization. “She spoke to her teammates… We moved on as a team. She’s a special player,” Pagliocca remarked, emphasizing the importance of communication in their pathway forward.

However, dissatisfaction among fans has lingered. A notable display of resentment was seen in the season finale when attendees expressed discontent through signs such as “Free Angel” and “Sell the Team.” This sentiment reflects a larger dissatisfaction with the franchise, as fans and analysts alike question the direction and commitment of team management.

### The Road Ahead: Building a Contender

Both Pagliocca and Reese have expressed a need for improvement in the roster to restore the team’s competitiveness. Reese has been vocal about her desire for significant changes within the organization, stressing that the team must recruit “great players” to avoid stagnation. Pagliocca echoed this sentiment, admitting that the Sky cannot rely solely on veteran players like Courtney Vandersloot, whose recent ACL injury significantly affected the team’s dynamics.

Vandersloot’s return is anticipated, but her age and injury history add a layer of uncertainty to the team’s future. The Sky’s reliance on aging players has drawn concerns from fans and players alike. Reese emphasized her belief that the team needs a younger point guard capable of leading them into a more competitive era. Pagliocca acknowledged this observation, hinting at the organization’s broader ambition: transitioning from reliance on veterans to fostering a team that can compete for championships.

### Fan Engagement and Future Strategies

Pagliocca’s comments also highlighted the passionate fan base that drives the Sky’s motivations. “I’m appreciative that we have passionate fans that want to see winning,” he stated, recognizing their role as stakeholders in the franchise. Maintaining an open line of communication with fans coupled with strategic improvements to the team’s composition could be critical in rebuilding trust and engagement.

In terms of roster management, Pagliocca indicated a need to bolster resources and invest in player development, vital components of restoring the Sky’s former glory. With only four players under contract for the upcoming season, flexibility in roster construction will be key. The impending collective bargaining agreement may also provide further opportunities for reshaping the team’s strategy.

### Conclusion: A New Chapter for the Sky

As the Chicago Sky prepares for its next chapter, both Pagliocca and Reese are navigating the complexities of team dynamics in a competitive league. The tension experienced this past season serves as a valuable lesson in the importance of clear communication and commitment to a shared vision among players and management.

While the road ahead may be challenging, the sky’s leadership appears resolute in their commitment to realigning the team’s strategy and culture, focusing on fostering talent, cohesion, and ultimately, success on the court. The coming months will be critical in determining the efficacy of these plans, with fans and analysts closely monitoring the developments within the franchise.

The Chicago Sky finds itself at a potential turning point; the pursuit of excellence remains not just a goal, but a necessity if the team hopes to capitalize on the raw talent and potential embodied by players like Angel Reese.

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