The Chicago Sky face the Connecticut Sun at Mohegan Sun Arena. Both teams are struggling in the bottom of the standings, but the Sky will have to play the match without star Angel Reese.
According to the Sky’s injury report, Reese is out as she is struggling with a back injury. She has been dealing with the issue since the All-Star break, with only two appearances since the season resumed.
Recently, ahead of Sky’s win over the Washington Mystics, head coach Tyler Marsh gave an update on her situation, clarifying that there’s not a “concrete timetable” for her return. “It’s the back injury and she continues to be day-to-day … I think she’s progressing but still kind of wait and see.”
Meanwhile, Reese was in practice on August 11th, according to Winsidr, but she didn’t participate in the open portion. Reese’s last appearance came on July 29 in the Sky’s 103–86 loss to the Mystics, a game that proved frustrating for her.
She recorded 22 points and 13 rebounds but struggled with efficiency, shooting just 6-for-16 from the field, and was limited by both foul trouble and the pain, admitting that playing was “rough” for her.
This season, Reese is averaging 14.2 points, 12.6 rebounds (leading the league), 3.7 assists and 1.5 steals per game. Without her, the Sky are 1-7 this season, while in general, they are 8-23, with very slim chances of making it to the playoffs.
Chicago Sky’s potential lineup
Other Sky’s absences include Hailey Van Lith (ankle injury) and Courtney Vandersloot, who has been out since suffering an ACL tear. Meanwhile, Ariel Atkins (leg issue) could return to the lineup tonight.
In that sense, the Sky’s probable starting lineup is expected to feature Michaela Onyenwere, Elizabeth Williams, Kamilla Cardoso, and Rachel Banham. The fifth spot will likely go to either Ariel Atkins, if she’s cleared to play, or Segvi Uzun if Atkins remains sidelined.