Chicago Sky head coach Teresa Weatherspoon has made a startling admission about Angel Reese, addressing concerns about the rookie forward’s transition to the WNBA. While Reese has shown flashes of the relentless rebounding and defensive intensity that made her a college star, Weatherspoon acknowledged that the adjustment to the professional level has been challenging. In a recent interview, she compared Reese’s early struggles to the immediate impact of Caitlin Clark, noting a key difference that has raised eyebrows around the league.
Weatherspoon pointed out that while Clark has seamlessly adapted to the speed and skill level of the WNBA, Reese has faced more difficulties in certain areas of her game. The Chicago Sky coach emphasized that Reese’s aggressive style remains her biggest strength, but she also hinted at growing concerns about whether she can refine her offensive game to match the competition. “Angel plays with so much heart, but there are adjustments that need to be made,” Weatherspoon admitted. “The WNBA is different—it’s faster, stronger, and requires a certain level of polish that she’s still working toward.”
Since joining the Sky, Reese has had moments of dominance, particularly on the boards, but her offensive efficiency and defensive discipline have come into question. Weatherspoon’s remarks suggest that the coaching staff recognizes these struggles and is working to help Reese transition successfully. However, the comparisons to Clark, who has already established herself as a scoring and playmaking threat for the Indiana Fever, have only fueled discussions about whether Reese can rise to the same level. Some analysts believe the expectations placed on Reese have made her adjustment even more challenging.
Despite the concerns, Weatherspoon remained optimistic about Reese’s potential, stating that her work ethic and energy set her apart. “She’s a competitor, and she wants to be great,” Weatherspoon said. “It’s just about refining those skills and continuing to grow. She’s still young, and the WNBA isn’t an easy league to dominate right away.” While Clark has quickly become one of the league’s most talked-about players, Weatherspoon made it clear that Reese’s path may take a different trajectory, but that doesn’t mean she won’t eventually find her footing.
As Reese continues to navigate the challenges of her rookie season, the conversation about her future remains ongoing. Weatherspoon’s candid remarks have only added fuel to the debate about whether Reese will become a long-term star or struggle to meet the high expectations placed on her. With time, development, and perseverance, Reese has the opportunity to silence her critics—but for now, the league is watching closely to see how she handles the pressure.
