Chicago Sky Coach Blames LA Sparks Fans for Loss, Eyes Kamilla Cardoso as Team’s Future..
In a surprising post-game outburst, Chicago Sky head coach Tyler Marsh pointed fingers at the Los Angeles Sparks’ fanbase, blaming their “unfriendly” atmosphere for his team’s 0-3 start after a loss at Crypto.com Arena on Sunday, May 25, 2025. The Sky, led by young stars Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, fell short against the Sparks, prompting Marsh to vent frustrations while outlining a bold vision to rebuild the team around Cardoso.
Marsh didn’t mince words when addressing the impact of the Sparks’ fans. “The environment here was tough—unwelcoming, almost hostile. It got to our players’ heads,” he said, suggesting the raucous crowd disrupted his team’s focus. While acknowledging the Sky’s offensive struggles, Marsh argued that the intense atmosphere at Crypto.com Arena played a significant role in their defeat. This claim has sparked debate, with some fans and analysts questioning whether Marsh was deflecting from his team’s early-season woes. The Sky’s 0-3 record, with losses to the Indiana Fever, New York Liberty, and now the Sparks, has raised concerns about team chemistry and execution.
Despite the rocky start, Marsh remains optimistic, particularly about second-year center Kamilla Cardoso. The 6-foot-7 Brazilian, drafted third overall in 2024, has shown flashes of brilliance but struggled for consistency alongside Reese. Marsh emphasized a strategic shift, stating, “Kamilla is our anchor. We need to be more intentional about getting her the ball in the paint.” He envisions Cardoso as the cornerstone of a revamped offense, leveraging her dominant overseas performance in China—where she averaged 20.2 points and 11 rebounds with the Shanghai Swordfish—to unlock her potential in the WNBA.
Cardoso’s development is critical for the Sky, who missed the playoffs last season with a 13-27 record. Her ability to dominate the post, combined with improved shooting touch, could open the floor for teammates like Reese and veteran point guard Courtney Vandersloot. However, tensions between Cardoso and Reese have surfaced, with fans noting Cardoso’s frustrated body language when Reese dominates the ball. Marsh’s challenge is to align their roles, ensuring both players complement each other. “Kamilla and Angel need to find their rhythm together. It’s about spacing and trust,” Marsh noted, highlighting the need for better floor balance.
The Sparks game exposed ongoing issues, including the Sky’s league-low 3-point attempts last season, which allowed defenses to clog the paint and stifle Cardoso and Reese. Marsh has vowed to incorporate more perimeter shooting to create space, a tactic he believes will benefit Cardoso’s post play. With upcoming games offering a chance to turn things around, Marsh’s focus on Cardoso signals a long-term commitment to her growth, even as he navigates external pressures like hostile crowds and internal dynamics. As the Sky look to rebound, all eyes are on whether Cardoso can emerge as the franchise’s cornerstone and lead them back to playoff contention.
