Reese Joins Sky: Chicago's Winning Formula

The Chicago Sky made a statement loud and clear with their draft night moves - they are going all-in on building a new dynasty. The defending WNBA champions pulled off a massive trade to move up and select LSU superstar Angel Reese with the 7th overall pick, pairing her with fellow draft pick Kamilla Cardoso in an imposing frontcourt.

Reese, the newly-minted NCAA champion and three-time All-American, was considered an “enigma” by some GMs leading up to the draft. Her unmatched competitive fire and rebounding prowess were tantalizing, but questions persisted about her ideal position and fit at the next level. Chicago showed no hesitation in rolling the dice on the 6'3" forward.

“We are absolutely thrilled we were able to get Angel at seventh overall,” beamed Sky GM Jeff Pagliocca. “She is a relentless rebounder, a national champion, an SEC Player of the Year and we cannot wait to see her here in Chi Town.”

The Sky’s bold drafting perfectly aligns their new pieces. Pairing the undersized but dominant Reese with the 6'7" Cardoso allows both to play their natural positions - Reese at power forward, Cardoso at center. It’s a construction reminiscent of Reese’s junior season alongside LaDazhia Williams when LSU cut down the nets.

More than just positional fit, Chicago is the ideal landing spot for Reese’s maturation as a pro. GM Pagliocca’s background in player development signals an organizational commitment to unlocking her full potential and expanding her game away from the basket. Under veteran coach Teresa Weatherspoon, who has direct ties to Reese’s college coach Kim Mulkey, the fiery forward will be challenged to evolve while maintaining her trademark competitive edge.

The Sky’s future is now staked on two pillars - the veteran scoring prowess of reigning Finals MVP Kahleah Copper, and the interior dominance of Reese and Cardoso. With championship DNA on both ends of the experience spectrum, Chicago has assembled a fascinating blend of players ready to contend for years to come.

For Angel Reese, an “enigma” no more, the Sky provides the perfect stage to take her game to new heights as part of a modernized twin-tower attack. In Chicago, the newest draft queens are embracing a proven formula - when you have a chance to add winners, you go for it. The Sky’s newest dynamic duo has the talent and surroundings to keep the winningest winners…winning.