The Chicago Sky are struggling on the court, and it seems their reputation off it isn't faring much better.
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In a recent anonymous player poll conducted by The Athletic's Sabreena Merchant and Ben Pickman, the Sky were voted the worst-run organization in the WNBA. Out of 27 players surveyed, 11 picked Chicago.
The Connecticut Sun (eight votes), Los Angeles Sparks (four), and Dallas Wings (two) rounded out the top four in the poll.
Criticism of the Sky included complaints that the team "still practices in a rec center," and one player noted that "a lot of stuff always seems to be going on there." Despite having a new $38 million practice facility in the works, it won't be ready until at least mid-2026. For now, the Sky continue to train at Sachs Recreation Center in Deerfield, Ill.
Chicago is led by second-year forward Angel Reese, who doesn't appear fazed by the outside noise.
"I don't care if we practice down the street," Reese told reporters. "I wanna be where I'm loved and where I'm appreciated. ... As long as I have two goals ... and a ball to put in the hoop."
Angel Reese adds that she was locked in with Chicago Sky, regardless of the facilities: “I don’t care if we practice down the street. I wanna be where I’m loved and where I’m appreciated. … As long as I have two goals … and a ball to put in the hoop.” pic.twitter.com/khITEpbTYy
— Julia Poe (@byjuliapoe) August 7, 2024
The Sky are currently 7-15 and fifth in the Eastern Conference. Last season, they were at the center of a national anthem controversy that also drew league-wide attention.
Whether it's facilities, distractions, or performance, the Sky seem to be under the microscope and their peers have taken notice.
