Sky’s Reese on Thin Ice with Technical Fouls

Star Forward Nears Automatic Suspension

Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese is currently leading the WNBA in technical fouls, putting her at risk of an automatic one-game suspension. The star player missed Sunday’s game against the Indiana Fever due to a back injury.

Navigating the Technicality

Reese has accumulated seven technical fouls this season. Should she receive one more, it will trigger an immediate one-game ban. The last Sky figure to come close to this limit was former coach James Wade, who received six technicals in 2022.

Last season, both Teaira McCowan and Natasha Cloud each served one-game suspensions for technical fouls, with Skylar Diggins also facing a ban in 2022. Coach Tyler Marsh attributes Reese‘s technicals to her intense passion and competitive drive.

Encounters and Consequences

Many of Reese‘s technicals stem from exchanges with opponents. Her notable interactions include a double-technical incident with Fever center Aliyah Boston in May, which followed a flagrant foul by Caitlin Clark on Reese. Most recently, she received a technical on July 8 after words were exchanged with Mystics player Shakira Austin.

Marsh indicated that the team has attempted to appeal some of these calls, but the final decision rests with the league. The critical question remains whether Reese can avoid another technical over the Sky’s remaining 19 games.

“She’s aware of it. We’re not worried about it.”

—Tyler Marsh, Head Coach

However, the team’s performance without Reese, who is vital for her scoring, rebounding, and energy, makes any potential suspension particularly damaging. The Sky are already short-handed, with only eight players available for Sunday’s game.

Injury Updates and Roster Strain

Forward Michaela Onyenwere returned to action after a two-game absence due to a knee injury, contributing 14 minutes but going 0-for-3 from the field. Point guard Moriah Jefferson, who has only played in five games this season, remained sidelined. Marsh stated that her return is being managed day by day due to her injury history.

Rookie Hailey Van Lith also missed the game with an ankle injury, further thinning the team’s options at point guard. Marquesha Davis, signed to a seven-day hardship contract, saw eight minutes of play.

‘Clark-Mania’ Still Draws Crowds

Despite Caitlin Clark being absent from Sunday’s game with a leg injury, her presence was palpable. Numerous Indiana Fever fans arrived hours early to the United Center, eager for autographs or a glimpse of the star player. Upon the arena’s opening, fans rushed towards the tunnel to secure prime viewing spots.

Clark did not participate in warm-ups or take shots. However, her appearance in sweats for autographs generated immense excitement, with fans frequently moving between seating rows to get closer. For many in attendance, Clark‘s mere presence was the highlight of the day.