The Chicago Sky’s recent preseason games have highlighted a concerning trend: despite the presence of rising star Angel Reese, fan engagement appears to be lacking. Attendance figures and viewership metrics suggest that the team’s appeal may not be as strong as anticipated, raising questions about the factors influencing fan support.

Attendance and Viewership Concerns

In their preseason matchups, the Chicago Sky faced the Brazil National Team on May 2, 2025, and the Minnesota Lynx on May 6, 2025. While the Sky secured victories in both games, the attendance was notably low. The game against the Brazil National Team saw a sparse crowd, and the matchup with the Lynx also failed to attract a substantial audience. These figures contrast with the league’s overall attendance trends, where teams like the Indiana Fever have reported sold-out crowds and high ticket demand .

Television ratings for the Sky’s games have also been underwhelming. The preseason games failed to attract significant viewership, with ratings falling below expectations. This decline in viewership is particularly concerning given the increased media attention the WNBA has received in recent years. The lack of substantial TV ratings suggests that the league’s growth may not be as robust as previously thought.

Angel Reese’s Performance and Public Perception

Angel Reese, the 2024 WNBA Peak Performer in rebounds, has been a standout player for the Sky. She led the league in rebounding with an average of 13.1 per game and set a WNBA record for consecutive double-doubles with 15. Despite her individual success, the team’s overall performance and fan engagement have not reflected her contributions. The lack of increased attendance and viewership during her games raises questions about the factors influencing fan interest beyond individual player performance.

Fan Reactions and Criticisms

The disparity in fan engagement has not gone unnoticed. Critics have pointed out the stark contrast between the Sky’s games and those of other teams, particularly the Indiana Fever. The Fever’s recent preseason game against the Brazil National Team drew a sold-out crowd, with tickets reselling for as much as $670, highlighting the Fever’s strong fan support . In contrast, the Sky’s games have struggled to attract similar attention, leading to discussions about the factors contributing to this disparity.

Conclusion

The Chicago Sky’s recent preseason games have highlighted ongoing challenges in fan engagement and viewership. Despite the presence of a talented player like Angel Reese, the team has struggled to attract substantial crowds and television audiences. Addressing these issues will be crucial for the Sky and the WNBA as a whole to continue their growth and increase their appeal to a broader audience.