Sat Sep 13 17:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Chicago Sky Star Angel Reese Walks Back Comments Amid Tumultuous Season
**Chicago, IL -** The Chicago Sky are facing a period of intense scrutiny after a disappointing 10-34 season, culminating in star player Angel Reese expressing frustrations that have since been described as “taken out of context.” The turmoil follows a season plagued by losses, injuries, and fan discontent, with some even calling for the firing of General Manager Jeff Pagliocca.
Reese, the No. 7 pick in the 2024 draft, found herself at the center of controversy after comments published in the Chicago Tribune were deemed “detrimental to the team,” resulting in a brief suspension. The team attributed Reese’s absence for the final three games to a back injury, further fueling speculation of a fractured relationship between the star and the franchise.
According to the article, Reese expressed dissatisfaction with the Sky’s current state, stating she wouldn’t “settle for the same s— we did this year” and implying that if the team failed to acquire “great players this offseason,” she might consider leaving. She also voiced concerns about relying on veteran point guard Courtney Vandersloot, who is recovering from an ACL tear, despite Pagliocca’s public confidence in her return.
In response to the public outcry, Pagliocca stated on Friday that Reese remains a vital part of the Sky’s roster and that the team has “closed the chapter” on the incident. He emphasized his ongoing, productive conversations with Reese and her team, highlighting her “special player” status.
Despite Pagliocca’s efforts to project a united front, fan frustration remains palpable. Chants of “Fire Jeff” and signs reading “Free Angel” and “Sell the Team” were prominent during the Sky’s season finale, underscoring the deep-seated dissatisfaction with the team’s direction.
Pagliocca acknowledged the fan concerns, reiterating his commitment to improving the team and securing greater resources. He also expressed unwavering support for head coach Tyler Marsh and emphasized his belief in Vandersloot’s comeback, calling her an embodiment of the city’s toughness and competitiveness.
The Sky are in a challenging position, with only four players under contract for 2026. Pagliocca stressed the need to significantly improve the roster in the upcoming offseason, particularly addressing the point guard situation, as the team seeks to return to championship contention. While he views 2025 as a step forward in building a better culture, the pressure is on to make tangible improvements to the team’s performance and quell the growing discontent among fans and potentially its star players.
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