The honeymoon phase is officially over in Chicago — and it’s rookie forward Angel Reese who is now under the microscope.

In a bold and brutally honest statement, Chicago Sky General Manager Jeff Pagliocca has called out Reese’s early-season performance, expressing disappointment in her lack of production and raising alarms about the team’s direction.

“We drafted for impact, not just headlines,” Pagliocca reportedly said during a closed-door media session.
“Right now, the numbers don’t lie — and if things don’t change, the sky isn’t just falling metaphorically. It’s falling on the court.”

That quote — instantly shared across social media — has ignited a firestorm of debate around Reese’s role, the pressure on young stars, and the shaky state of the Sky.

Angel Reese’s Rookie Struggles

After a highly anticipated arrival from LSU and a whirlwind of media attention, Reese’s early WNBA stats tell a humbling story:

7.2 points per game

7.6 rebounds per game

39% shooting from the field

Frequent foul trouble and missed layups

While her hustle and effort are unquestioned, her efficiency, shot selection, and defensive positioning have been underwhelming. In several games, she’s disappeared for long stretches — especially in second halves.

“She brings energy, but we need results. Energy doesn’t win games on its own,” said one assistant coach anonymously.

GM’s Comments Spark Locker Room Tension

Sources inside the organization say Pagliocca’s comments were intentional and strategic — a wake-up call not just for Reese, but for the entire young roster.

However, some veterans have reportedly pushed back, saying the public criticism of a rookie could damage morale and confidence, especially for a player still adjusting to the pro game.

Others, including fans, feel it’s exactly the accountability the team needs:

“If you’re marketed like a star, you have to produce like one,” wrote a fan on X.
“No one’s above the standard — not even Angel.”

Reese Responds: “I’m Built for This”

To her credit, Reese didn’t shy away from the criticism.

In a postgame interview after a recent loss, she addressed the GM’s comments head-on:

“Look, I know what I bring to the table. I’ve never backed down from a challenge, and I won’t now. I’m built for this. I’ll be better — I promise.”

She added that she’s still learning the pace and physicality of the WNBA but is committed to improving each week.

The Bigger Problem: Team Identity Crisis

The Sky aren’t just struggling with Reese. The team as a whole is battling inconsistency, poor offensive flow, and defensive breakdowns. Despite promising rookie talent like Kamilla Cardoso and Dana Evans, Chicago has lacked a clear identity — and their record reflects it.

Pagliocca’s frustration seems aimed not just at Reese, but at the disconnect between hype and performance across the roster.

“We’ve got too many highlights and not enough wins,” he said.
“That’s not the franchise we want to be.”

What’s Next for Reese & the Sky?

With the season still young, there’s time for Reese to turn things around — and she has the work ethic and confidence to do so. But the message from leadership is clear:

The clock is ticking.

If Reese can’t elevate her game and prove she’s more than just a media draw, the Sky may need to reconsider how they’re building their future.

Final Thoughts: Pressure Creates Diamonds — or Breaks Them

Angel Reese is one of the most talked-about rookies in years — but in the WNBA, talk only goes so far.

Chicago needs results.
Pagliocca wants leadership.
And Reese now finds herself at a crossroads where talent must meet expectation.

The spotlight is bright. The pressure is real. And how Angel Reese responds will define the next chapter of both her career — and the future of the Chicago Sky.