The Chicago Sky just sent a message to the entire WNBA — and it came with power, poise, and a dominating performance by none other than Kamilla Cardoso. In her breakout game, the rookie center absolutely crushed the Dallas Wings, leading the Sky to a statement win. But the spotlight didn’t shine on everyone equally — Angel Reese, the team’s other high-profile rookie, took a backseat in a surprising role shift that has fans talking.

Angel Reese OUT FOR SEASON! Chicago Sky BLOCKING Caitlin Clark Fans!  Kamilla Cardoso About TO EAT! - YouTube

Kamilla Cardoso’s Coming-Out Party

After recovering from a minor injury that delayed her debut, Kamilla Cardoso made it worth the wait. The 6’7″ powerhouse from South Carolina exploded onto the court with authority — scoring efficiently in the paint, grabbing boards, and protecting the rim like a veteran.

She posted an impressive stat line:

Angel Reese Had Words for Kamilla Cardoso After Loss to Sparks - Athlon  Sports


18 points, 11 rebounds, 3 blocks — and made her presence felt on both ends of the floor.

Fans and analysts alike are calling it one of the most dominant rookie performances of the season so far.

“This is the Kamilla Cardoso we were waiting for,” said a WNBA commentator. “She didn’t just play — she controlled the game.”

Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso's treatment towards each other after Sky  star was 'done' - The Mirror US

Angel Reese: Role Player or Just a Rough Night?

While Cardoso dominated, Angel Reese struggled to find her rhythm. The LSU star and media sensation finished with just 6 points and 7 rebounds, shooting poorly from the field and appearing visibly frustrated at times.

Chicago Sky expecting Courtney Vandersloot to help growth of Angel Reese,  Kamilla Cardoso - Yahoo Sports

Head coach Teresa Weatherspoon adjusted rotations accordingly, giving Cardoso more touches and minutes while limiting Reese’s involvement in key moments. For the first time this season, Reese looked more like a role player than the star many expected her to be.

HIGHLIGHTS: Chicago Sky take down the Dallas Wings, 83-72, at home | June  20, 2024 - YouTube

This isn’t necessarily a long-term demotion — but it’s clear that the team is starting to ride the hot hand, and right now, that hand belongs to Kamilla Cardoso.

Kamilla Cardoso: How the rookie found her footing with the Chicago Sky

Chicago Sky Take Control

The Sky played with a renewed sense of energy, out-rebounding and out-hustling the Wings for most of the night. With veteran guard Marina Mabrey orchestrating the offense and Cardoso anchoring the paint, Chicago looked like a playoff contender — not just a team “rebuilding with rookies.”

Chicago Sky: Is Kamilla Cardoso living up to expectations?

The final score: Chicago Sky 87 – Dallas Wings 76

This win pushes the Sky above .500 and gives them valuable momentum heading into a tough stretch of the schedule.

Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso's treatment towards each other after Sky  star was 'done' - The Mirror US

What This Means Moving Forward

Cardoso’s emergence is a game-changer for the Sky. If she continues to play at this level, the team may shift its identity around her size and skill in the post. Meanwhile, Angel Reese may need to adjust, develop further, and find her groove within a system that now has two young stars vying for the spotlight.

But make no mistake — this is a good problem for Chicago. And with Kamilla Cardoso now fully activated, the rest of the league better take notice.

The Sky just got a whole lot scarier.