The Chicago Sky’s decision to fire Teresa Weatherspoon appears to stem from issues highlighted during player exit interviews. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, players cited a shift in playing style during the disappointing 13-27 season, indicating a disconnect between the team and the first-year head coach. This season, which began with optimism, ended in playoff absence.
Players viewed the challenges as part of Weatherspoon’s learning curve, as she adjusted to the demands of her new role. The abrupt decision to let go of the former Liberty star, just months after her hiring, sent ripples through the league, particularly affecting star forward Angel Reese.
Reflecting on the season, Weatherspoon noted the team’s determination despite facing numerous challenges, including injuries and illnesses. “They gave everything they had. You can’t help but be proud of your team leaving it all out there,” she remarked.
The Sky’s performance declined from the previous year, with five additional losses, exacerbated by a series of injuries. Reese’s season ended early due to a wrist injury, while fellow rookie Kamilla Cardoso, the third overall pick, missed significant time with a shoulder issue.
Reese expressed her heartbreak over Weatherspoon’s firing on social media, stating, “I’m literally lost for words knowing what this woman meant to me in such a pivotal point in my life.” She emphasized Weatherspoon’s belief in her as a Black woman in sports, a sentiment echoed by other players throughout the season.
This moment between Angel Reese and Teresa Weatherspoon 🫶 pic.twitter.com/5qGTtftXO3
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) September 27, 2024
The Sun-Times highlighted the Sky’s struggles in retaining talent and building on their 2021 championship success. Marina Mabrey requested a trade and subsequently contributed significantly to the Connecticut Sun’s playoff success, helping eliminate the Fever in the first round.
The Sky faced challenges in free agency, missing out on major signings while Nneka Ogwumike and Skylar Diggins-Smith joined the Seattle Storm. Additionally, the team traded Kahleah Copper, the 2021 Finals MVP, to the Phoenix Mercury, where she played a key role in their playoff run.
Currently, only Dana Evans and Diamond DeShields remain from the 2021 championship roster, with DeShields having returned to the team after a brief departure. As the Sky move forward, they are now tasked with finding a new head coach, while awaiting their position in the draft lottery set for December 10.
