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The Chicago Sky star's absence comes after her comments about the team sparked controversy and ignited strong reactions from supporters.
Angel Reese's absence from the court is stirring up emotions among fans and raising questions about her future with the Chicago Sky.
The 23-year-old WNBA standout missed her team's final regular-season game on Thursday, September 11, citing a lingering back injury. This marked the third consecutive game Reese has sat out since she was given a half-game suspension earlier in the week for making blunt remarks about the organization and her teammates.
Despite not playing, Reese received a warm welcome when she entered Wintrust Arena in Chicago, with fans erupting in cheers. Many came prepared with bold displays of support, waving signs and wearing T-shirts emblazoned with messages like "Free Angel" and "Free #5" in reference to her jersey number. One sign directly criticized the team's general manager, Jeff Pagliocca, reading simply: "Fire Jeff."
The drama began after Reese's September 3 interview with the Chicago Tribune, where she openly expressed frustration with the team's lack of progress.
"I'm not settling for the same stuff we did this year," she said. "We need great players l, that's non-negotiable for me."
The forward later apologized to her teammates, but the Sky issued a half-game suspension for her "detrimental" comments. Reese, however, did not return for the second half of that game, citing her ongoing back issues.
At Thursday's game, the crowd's chants became impossible to ignore. During a stoppage of play, a loud "Fire Jeff!" echoed throughout the arena, forcing players to step in and ask fans to calm down.
Reese last played on September 3 against the Connecticut Sun, where she also received her eighth technical foul of the season, triggering a league-mandated suspension. In total, she has missed 14 games this year.
The Sky have now completed their second consecutive season without a playoff appearance. Reese, drafted seventh overall in 2024, signed a four-year rookie contract but now faces growing speculation about whether she will remain with the team.