Chicago Sky suspend Angel Reese over team-damaging remarks

The Chicago Sky have suspended forward Angel Reese for the first half of their upcoming game against the Las Vegas Aces following remarks she made about her teammates, coaches, and the organization. The suspension, announced Friday, comes after her comments were published earlier this week in the Chicago Tribune.

In a statement, the team emphasized its commitment to accountability: “The Chicago Sky values the safety, respect, and well-being of every player. We are committed to accountability so our players can stay focused on playing basketball. Because of statements detrimental to the team made by Angel Reese during league-mandated media, she will not play in the first half of the game on September 7 against the Las Vegas Aces. This matter has been handled and resolved internally, and we are moving forward as a team.”

The Sky currently sit 12th in the WNBA standings with a 10–31 record, just one spot above the Dallas Wings.

Reese’s Criticism and Call for Change

Reese did not hold back in her Tribune interview, expressing frustration with the team’s lackluster season and urging the front office to bring in stronger talent.

“I’m not settling for the same sht we did this year,”* the two-time All-Star said. “We have to get good players. We have to get great players. That’s a non-negotiable for me. I’m willing and wanting to play with the best. And however I can help to get the best here, that’s what I’m going to do this offseason.”

She went on to stress the importance of the coming offseason, calling it a pivotal moment to attract high-caliber talent and avoid another disappointing campaign. Reese also hinted at uncertainty about her future with the franchise, saying she would like to remain in Chicago but would consider other options if progress stalls: “I’d like to be here for my career, but if things don’t pan out, obviously I might have to move in a different direction and do what’s best for me.”

Apology and Clarification

Following the backlash, Reese attempted to clarify her remarks after the Sky’s 88–64 victory over the Connecticut Sun on Wednesday. The 23-year-old acknowledged that her frustration may have overshadowed her true intentions.

“I probably am frustrated with myself right now,” Reese admitted. “I think the language was taken out of context and I really didn’t intentionally mean to put down my teammates because they’ve been through this with me throughout the whole year. I just have to be better with my language because I know it’s not the message, it’s the messenger. And understanding what I say can be taken any type of way. So, I just have to be better and grow from this.”

Rising Star Amid Controversy

Despite the controversy, Reese remains one of the WNBA’s brightest young talents. Selected seventh overall in the 2024 draft, she is averaging 14.7 points per game and leads the league with 12.6 rebounds per contest. With at least one season remaining on her rookie contract, her performance has made her central to the Sky’s rebuilding hopes.

However, her candid remarks and subsequent suspension highlight the challenges facing both Reese and the organization as they look to reset and move forward.