Chicago Sky star Angel Reese is in doubt for the team’s highly anticipated 2025 WNBA season opener against the Indiana Fever on Saturday, May 17, following an injury concern that has sent ripples through the basketball world. The news comes as the Sky prepare to face off against Caitlin Clark and the Fever in a marquee matchup at Gainbridge Fieldhouse, a game expected to reignite one of the WNBA’s most compelling rivalries. With Reese’s availability hanging in the balance, the Sky face a critical challenge as they aim to kick off the season on a strong note.
Reese, the 2024 WNBA rebounding leader and an All-Star rookie, has been a cornerstone for Chicago since being drafted seventh overall. Her historic rookie season saw her average 13.6 points and 13.1 rebounds per game, setting a league record for 15 consecutive double-doubles. However, her campaign was cut short by a wrist injury that required surgery in September 2024. While Reese returned to action during the offseason, playing in the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league and earning Defensive Player of the Year honors, she re-injured her left wrist during the league’s regular-season finale on March 10, 2025. This setback sidelined her for Unrivaled’s playoffs and raised alarms about her readiness for the WNBA season.
According to reports, Reese has been back in the gym, training with player development specialists and showing signs of recovery. Chicago Tribune reporter Julia Poe noted that Reese was participating in workouts without restrictions as recently as April 2025, suggesting she could be cleared for the opener. However, sources close to the team indicate that the Sky are taking a cautious approach, with Reese listed as questionable pending final medical evaluations. Head coach Tyler Marsh, hired in November 2024, emphasized the team’s focus on long-term health, stating, “Angel’s a competitor, but we’re prioritizing her full recovery to ensure she’s at her best for the season.”
The potential absence of Reese would be a significant blow for Chicago, who are coming off a 13-27 season and missed the playoffs in 2024. The Sky have bolstered their roster with veterans like Courtney Vandersloot and Ariel Atkins, alongside rookie Hailey Van Lith, but Reese’s rebounding prowess and defensive tenacity are irreplaceable. Her matchup against Clark, who led the Fever to a 3-1 record against Chicago last season, was expected to draw record viewership, with the game set to air on ABC as part of an opening weekend doubleheader.
For the Fever, the uncertainty around Reese’s status adds a layer of intrigue. Indiana, unbeaten in the 2025 preseason, is navigating its own challenges, with Sophie Cunningham recovering from an injury scare. Coach Stephanie White remains optimistic, noting, “We’re preparing for Chicago with or without Angel. Their depth makes them dangerous.” If Reese is sidelined, Kamilla Cardoso will likely shoulder a heavier load for the Sky, testing their frontcourt against Indiana’s balanced attack.
As Saturday approaches, all eyes will be on Reese’s status. Her potential absence could shift the dynamics of this heated rivalry, but her resilience suggests she’ll be back dominating soon.
