The Chicago Sky and WNBA fans everywhere are reeling from heartbreaking news: Angel Reese, the league’s brightest young star and 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year, has suffered a serious wrist injury that could threaten her availability for the entire 2025 season. After a record-breaking rookie campaign that reignited fan interest and shattered expectations, Reese now faces one of the toughest challenges of her young career — a race against time to heal and return to form.

The Incident: A Painful Fall in a Moment of Triumph

The injury occurred during what should have been a highlight moment in a late-season matchup against the Los Angeles Sparks. Reese was finishing a tough and-one play under the basket — the kind of high-energy, aggressive move that defined her game. But as she landed awkwardly, she immediately clutched her right wrist and grimaced in visible pain.

Initial reports from the team medical staff suggested a minor sprain. However, follow-up scans revealed something more serious: a hairline fracture in a small bone of the wrist, which, if not treated properly, could lead to chronic issues such as arthritis or long-term joint instability.

She underwent a minor surgical procedure, and while the operation was successful, doctors have recommended an extended rehabilitation period, throwing her participation in the upcoming 2025 season into serious doubt.

A Historic Rookie Season Cut Short

Before the injury, Angel Reese was on pace to deliver one of the greatest rookie seasons in WNBA history. Averaging 13.6 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per game, Reese didn’t just keep up with her more seasoned opponents — she dominated them.

She broke the WNBA rookie record for most double-doubles in a season, surpassing a mark set by none other than Sylvia Fowles, a Hall of Fame-caliber player. Perhaps even more remarkably, Reese ended the year as the league’s top rebounder, making her the first rookie in decades to achieve such a feat.

Her intensity, vocal leadership, and charisma off the court made her not just a statistical standout but a marketing icon and fan favorite.

Future in Jeopardy? Concerns and Comeback Plans

The big question now: Will Angel Reese be ready in time for the 2025 season?

Doctors remain cautiously optimistic. The type of injury she sustained — though not career-ending — is particularly tricky for basketball players, who rely heavily on wrist strength for shooting, rebounding, and ball-handling. Any setback during rehab could push her return further into the year or even force her to miss the season entirely to avoid risking reinjury.

For her part, Reese seems determined to make a strong comeback. In a recent interview, she emphasized that this recovery period would be a time for her to refocus on her game, mental strength, and physical conditioning.

“This is just another challenge I have to overcome,” she said. “I’ve been underestimated before. I’ve been doubted before. But I always come back stronger.”

Reese plans to work on several areas of her game during the rehab period, including:

Improved shooting range and accuracy — particularly from the three-point line.

Better footwork in the paint.

Enhanced finishing through contact.

Refined conditioning and nutrition to optimize her body for long seasons ahead.

The Bigger Picture: Chicago Sky’s 2025 Outlook

Reese’s absence will no doubt leave a significant void in the Sky’s frontcourt. However, Chicago is looking ahead with cautious optimism. The 2025 WNBA Draft is packed with elite talent, and the Sky are reportedly interested in pairing Reese with Hailey Van Lith, her former LSU teammate and one of the top prospects this year.

If Reese is able to return late in the season — or even just for a playoff push — Chicago could become a serious title contender. If not, the focus will shift to development and building a young, resilient core around her for future seasons.

Fan Reaction and Support

Despite the devastating news, support for Angel Reese has poured in across social media. Fellow WNBA stars, NBA players, and even celebrities have posted messages of encouragement using hashtags like #PrayForReese and #ComebackSeason.

The WNBA community knows one thing: Angel Reese is a fighter. Her career has always been defined by resilience — from her boldness in college to her fearless transition into the pros. If anyone can turn adversity into greatness, it’s her.

Final Thoughts

While the injury casts a shadow over what was supposed to be an even bigger breakout year for Angel Reese, her story is far from over. It may, in fact, be just beginning. The 2025 season may be in jeopardy — but her future as a superstar is not.

Fans will be watching, waiting, and cheering louder than ever.