Angel Reese's WNBA Journey: Mentorship, Resilience, and Lessons Learned with the Chicago Sky
Angel Reese made a remarkable debut in the WNBA, joining the Chicago Sky as the seventh overall pick in the 2024 draft. She quickly proved herself as an All-Star and a dominant force on the court, averaging 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds in her rookie season. Reese set a new record for the highest rebounding average in a season and surpassed Candace Parker's double-double streak with 15 consecutive games.
Former Sky head coach Teresa Weatherspoon played a significant role in Reese's success, utilizing her skills and determination to benefit the team. Despite Reese's impressive performance, the Sky struggled as a team, finishing with a 13-27 record, the third-worst in the conference.
Following the disappointing season, the Sky parted ways with Weatherspoon and hired Tyler Marsh, a former assistant coach from the Las Vegas Aces, as their new head coach. In a recent episode of her podcast, "Unapologetically Angel," Reese had Weatherspoon as a guest, where they discussed Weatherspoon's unexpected dismissal from the Sky.
Weatherspoon expressed her shock at the team's decision and felt that she deserved more respect than being informed of her firing over the phone. Reese acknowledged the unfortunate situation but expressed gratitude for Weatherspoon's impact on her career, emphasizing that people come into our lives for a reason and a season.
Despite the way her exit was handled, Weatherspoon shared that she has moved on and is currently coaching in the 3-on-3 league Unrivaled for the team Vinyl BC. Reese, who participated in the league last season, decided not to join for the 2026 campaign. The bond between Reese and Weatherspoon remains strong, reflecting the positive impact they had on each other's lives during their time together with the Sky.
In conclusion, Angel Reese's early success in the WNBA, under the guidance of Teresa Weatherspoon, highlights the impact of strong mentorship and resilience in the face of challenges. Their shared experience with the Chicago Sky serves as a reminder of the valuable connections and lessons that can shape a player's career in professional basketball.