The Chicago Sky’s turbulent season just found another headline. Rising star Angel Reese stirred controversy earlier this week after delivering blunt criticism of her team and even singling out veteran guard Courtney Vandersloot in a Chicago Tribune interview.
The fallout was swift. Reese, 23, will serve a half-game suspension in Sunday’s clash with the Las Vegas Aces and is also expected to face a stern locker-room meeting with teammates. But perhaps the biggest response came from Vandersloot herself.
The 35-year-old guard, who returned to the Sky this offseason before suffering a season-ending ACL tear in June, didn’t hold back when asked about Reese’s remarks suggesting Chicago “can’t rely” on her at her age.
“Oh absolutely,” Vandersloot said when asked if Sky fans could expect to see her back next season. “Contrary to what people say or think, my age is absolutely not a factor. I am coming back. I’m going to come back better than ever because that’s what I’ve done—I’ve put myself in the position to come back and compete even at this age.”
Reese’s original comments hinted the Sky should seek “someone a little younger” with championship experience, casting doubt on Vandersloot’s ability to return as a major contributor. The veteran’s fiery response sends a clear message: she’s not done yet.
With the Sky already struggling on the court, this latest off-court drama is the last thing the franchise needs. Now, all eyes will be on how Reese and Vandersloot move forward in what has become one of the most talked-about WNBA storylines of the season.
