The 2025 WNBA season has delivered exciting games and breakout performances. But for the Chicago Sky, it’s been a tough stretch.
After their 85-66 loss to the undefeated New York Liberty on June 10, the Sky dropped to 2-6. It wasn’t just the Liberty’s stacked lineup that led to the lopsided result. Chicago also had to deal with the absence of veteran leader Courtney Vandersloot, who’s now out for the season. Rookie Angel Reese addressed the setback before tip-off, offering a heartfelt message to her injured teammate.
Angel Reese Offers Support for Courtney Vandersloot
Speaking in a pregame interview, Reese acknowledged how much Vandersloot means to the team, both on and off the floor. She shared her thoughts publicly before the Sky’s matchup with New York.
“It’s super unfortunate, obviously. She works really hard, was a great leader for us, and she’s continued to be that for us,” Reese said. “Obviously, my heart goes out to her because she doesn’t deserve that, no player deserves it.”
Vandersloot went down on June 7 during a game against the Indiana Fever. While driving to the basket the 36-year-old guard collapsed without contact and immediately grabbed her right knee. She was helped off the court and did not return, and was later diagnosed with a torn right ACL. Chicago went on to lose by 27 points.
Reese later spoke with ESPN’s Holly Rowe during the Liberty game. She made it clear that the team is preparing to step up in Vandersloot’s absence.
“Hailey (Van Lith) and Rachel (Banham), they’ve worked hard in training camp and throughout the year, so I know we’ve prepared for this moment,” Reese said. “And also, I can help out, too.”
Angel Reese with the assists on and off the court 🧡😂 pic.twitter.com/1iUBOtmOZh
— ESPN (@espn) June 11, 2025
Chicago’s Offense Struggles Without Vandersloot
Without Vandersloot on the court, Chicago looked lost. The Liberty controlled the game from the opening tip, outscoring the Sky in each of the first three quarters and leading by 28 heading into the fourth. The Sky closed the gap slightly late, but the outcome was never in doubt.
Still, Reese was a bright spot. The rookie posted her fourth double-double of the season with a season-high 17 points, 11 rebounds, and three assists. Her energy and effort stood out in an otherwise rough night.
Now sitting at 2-6, the Sky are hoping to regroup when they visit the Atlanta Dream on Friday. Atlanta, currently 6-3, is coming off a dominant 77-58 win over Indiana.
