The WNBA free agency period has been a whirlwind, with teams making bold moves to reshape their rosters. However, one glaring issue has emerged—top free agents are choosing other destinations, leaving Angel Reese’s Chicago Sky behind.

Despite Reese’s confident statements about creating a superteam in Chicago, the reality has been quite different. High-profile players have actively avoided the Sky, opting instead to join Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever, who are quickly becoming one of the most promising franchises in the league.

So, why are top talents steering clear of Chicago? Why is Indiana, once seen as a less desirable destination, now drawing elite players? And most importantly, what does this mean for Angel Reese’s future in the WNBA? Let’s explore.

Angel Reese’s Plan Crumbles

Not long ago, Reese was full of optimism, declaring that she would be pivotal in transforming Chicago into a powerhouse. She believed top players would flock to join her in Chicago, as she confidently spoke about building something special.

However, as the free agency period unfolded, her vision has fallen apart. Rather than assembling a team of superstars, the Sky have struggled to attract top-tier talent, while other teams like Indiana, Las Vegas, and Phoenix have made major acquisitions. Chicago has faced rejection after rejection.

The biggest blow? The top free agents didn’t even seriously consider the Sky.

Top Free Agents That Rejected Chicago

The WNBA free agency period featured some of the biggest stars in the league—players who could have transformed a franchise. Here’s where some of the top names landed:

Kelsey Plum → Los Angeles Sparks
Jewell Loyd → Las Vegas Aces
Brittney Griner → Atlanta Dream
Alyssa Thomas → Phoenix Mercury
DeWanna Bonner → Indiana Fever
Natasha Howard → Indiana Fever
Kelsey Mitchell → Indiana Fever

All of these stars had the opportunity to join Chicago—and none of them did.

Instead, they opted to:

Join other teams with strong rosters and championship aspirations
Choose franchises with solid leadership and clear management

Meanwhile, Chicago watched as the top talent slipped through their fingers.

Why Are Players Avoiding Chicago?

Rebuild Mode
Chicago is far from a championship contender at the moment. With no elite players signed, the Sky appear set for another tough season. While Reese and Camila Cardoso are promising young players, they aren’t enough to attract veteran stars who don’t want to sign up for a rebuild.

Internal Turmoil
The Sky’s internal issues are another factor that has scared off free agents. The firing of head coach Teresa Weatherspoon after just one season raised eyebrows, and rumors of locker room tensions and favoritism have made Chicago an unattractive destination. Reese herself may be contributing to the instability, according to some reports.

Indiana Fever’s Rise
While Chicago floundered, Indiana Fever quietly emerged as the big winner in free agency. They secured veteran stars like DeWanna Bonner and Natasha Howard, re-signed top scorer Kelsey Mitchell, and even poached Brianna Turner from Chicago.

What’s the common thread here? All of these players want to team up with Caitlin Clark. Clark is not only an extraordinary talent, but her presence elevates those around her, makes her teammates better, and has turned the Fever into one of the most exciting teams in the league.

For free agents, choosing Indiana over Chicago was an obvious choice.

The Reality for Angel Reese

Now, Reese faces a tough challenge. Instead of leading a championship-caliber team, she’s left trying to figure things out with a rebuilding squad. Without a strong supporting cast, her development might be hindered.

Her outspoken nature, which has sometimes been controversial, may also be a factor in why other top players aren’t eager to join forces with her.

Fan Reactions: “This Is Embarrassing for Chicago”

WNBA fans have been vocal in criticizing the Sky’s free agency struggles:

“How do you go into free agency and sign literally no one?”
“Angel Reese talked all that talk, and now no stars want to play with her. Yikes.”
“Indiana just stole all the best free agents. Chicago is left with nothing.”

Meanwhile, Fever fans are celebrating as their team has gone from rebuilding to title contenders in one fell swoop.

What’s Next for Chicago and Angel Reese?

As the 2025 WNBA season approaches, Chicago looks lost, with few options left. The Sky’s best chance now is to build through the draft, but that’s a long-term solution, not an immediate one.

In contrast, Indiana continues to stack their roster, positioning themselves as a dominant force for years to come.

For Angel Reese, this is a pivotal moment. Will she rise to the challenge and prove she can lead a struggling team? Can she still attract talent in the future, or has her brand taken a hit? And will Chicago address their issues before it’s too late?

Final Thoughts: The WNBA’s Power Shift is Here

The power dynamics in the WNBA are changing, and Indiana Fever is on the rise. Chicago, on the other hand, seems to be stuck in a rut with no clear direction.

As for Angel Reese, she talked about building a superteam, but now she’s left watching as the true superteam takes shape in Indiana. This season promises to be full of drama, and the league’s landscape is shifting in real time.