The Chicago Sky has shown spurts of promise in the early part of this WNBA season, but overall, this team continues a downward trend. 

After beginning the season 0-4, Chicago was able to win back-to-back games, giving optimism that the Sky were turning the corner with significant contributions from Kamilla Cardosa and Ariel Atkins. The Sky would drop the next game against the Fever and lose starting point guard and the franchise’s all-time leading scorer, Courtney Vandersloot, to a knee injury.

There have been lingering questions surrounding this team so far this year. Why is first-round pick Hailey Van Lith not seeing quality minutes? Has Angel Reese’s offensive game improved enough to change the outcome of games? Is the personnel group assembled one that can push for a playoff berth?

The Van Lith Show Starts Now

So far Hailey Van Lith has seen limited action this season. The rookie averages 2.5 points, 1 rebound, and 1 assist in 10 minutes per contest. Vandersloot has been one of the bright spots for the Sky this season making it difficult for Van Lith to see significant action. With Vandesloot suffering a knee injury against the Fever and expected to miss time, Van Lith will now take over as the lead ball handler for the Sky. 

Reeses But No Cup

Angel Reese has continued to struggle offensively. Although leading the league in rebounds per game (12), she has shot horrific from the field with 31%. Reese has played great defense and shown improvement in her passing ability and overall ball handling. In order for this franchise to take the next step Reese will need to become a consistent threat on the offensive side of the basketball. 

We Just Need Some Consistency

Chicago has acquired a slew of veterans to fill out the roster for the 2025 season. Unfortunately, the cohesiveness of this unit has not been on display thus far. Leading the league in turnovers, Chicago does not swing the ball naturally and has trouble anticipating player location off screens and cuts. There is inconsistency in who brings the ball up court causing stillness in offensive sets that will make any basketball fan question the offensive philosophy of this team. The collection of players has not quite become a team yet.

End Of My Chicago Sky Rant

Overall, the Chicago Sky does holster a talented roster. The struggles seen this year are not from lack of talent but from underperforming. Adjustments need to be made and fast. With the emergence of the youthful Washington Mystics, the Sky are in danger of missing out on a playoff berth for the second year straight. Missing point-blank baskets and lack of communication on defensive switches won’t increase the numbers in the win column. Coach Tyler Marsh is more than capable of figuring out this difficult stretch, but will he?