Angel Reese watched her team’s season finale from the bench Thursday night, and you could imagine the tension rippling through Wintrust Arena. The Sky lost to New York 91-86, capping off a brutal 10-34 season that left everyone asking the same question: What’s next for Chicago’s brightest star?
After public criticism, a suspension, and weeks of speculation about her future, Reese and Sky seemed headed for divorce. But this week, general manager Jeff Pagliocca finally addressed the elephant in the room.
What Did Sky GM Jeff Pagliocca Say About Angel Reese Trade Rumors?
The Chicago Sky’s 2025 season record tied them with Dallas for the league’s worst mark. Fans were frustrated, and many wondered if Reese’s public criticism of the organization would lead to a dramatic offseason move.
However, Pagliocca attempted to cool the speculation. Speaking with reporters, he made it clear that, for now, the team plans on keeping Reese right where she is.
“Until I hear differently, we’re going to move in the direction that she’s going to be on the roster,” Pagliocca told Sky beat reporter Karli Bell. “Angel’s an ascending young talent in this league who’s had two very good seasons here in Chicago. We went through what we did.”
Pagliocca on FO’s approach towards AR: “Angel’s an ascending young talent in this league who’s had 2 very good seasons here in Chicago. We went through what we did…
“Until I hear differently, we’re going to move in the direction that she’s going to be on the roster.”
— Karli Bell (@KarliBell33) September 12, 2025
His words don’t eliminate the possibility of a trade down the road, but they suggest that Chicago is at least trying to mend fences. That approach feels like the only path forward for a franchise desperate to rebuild trust with its star and fan base.
How Valuable Is Angel Reese to the Sky’s Future?
If Chicago is serious about competing again, keeping Reese should be the priority. At just 23 years old, she already leads the team in points (14.7), rebounds (12.6), and assists (3.7) per game this season. Those numbers show that Reese has become the heartbeat of the Sky on both ends of the floor.
Her relentless rebounding gives Chicago second-chance opportunities, while her defensive toughness makes her a force in the paint. Additionally, her scoring versatility has evolved steadily since her LSU days. Even more importantly, she’s a competitor who plays with the grit and urgency that a struggling franchise badly needs.
Beyond the numbers, Reese brings star power the Sky can’t afford to lose. She is one of the most recognizable names in women’s basketball, boosting ticket sales, merchandise, and media attention. When a player has both elite production and the ability to elevate the profile of an entire franchise, you don’t give that away lightly.
Despite this, the disconnect between Reese and the organization has become increasingly apparent. While she has been carrying the team on the floor, fans feel the front office hasn’t done enough around her. During Chicago’s final home game against the Liberty, “Fire Jeff” chants echoed through Wintrust Arena, a public sign of how much frustration has boiled over.
Fire Jeff chants with the bench reacting. 😭 pic.twitter.com/cT1WdTPavs
— kimberly. (@problemsthots) September 12, 2025
The half-game suspension handed to Reese deepened that divide, with many fans believing the team should have listened to their young star instead of silencing her.
Looking ahead, the Sky face a crossroads. Reese has been vocal about wanting roster improvements, and if Chicago wants to keep her long-term, the front office will need to show urgency this offseason.
For now, Pagliocca’s comments suggest the Sky aren’t ready to part ways with their brightest star. But actions in the coming months may matter far more than words.
