New Chicago Sky head coach Tyler Marsh has set starlet Angel Reese a new objective for next year – as he challenged her to put the work in behind the scenes to improve her efficiency on the floor.
The former college basketball hero enjoyed a record-breaking maiden campaign in the WNBA after being selected as the No. 7 overall pick in the 2024 Draft. Having ended the regular season with an average of 13.6 points, 13.1 rebounds, and 1.3 steals per game, she was among the contenders for the Rookie of the Year prize.
Her tally of 446 rebounds across her first professional term meant she was second only to superstar A’ja Wilson in the overall league stakes. However, incoming coach Marsh is certain that the 22-year-old has areas where she can improve her game, in spite of calling her a “cornerstone” of the team upon his arrival.
Setting out his stall, the newly-appointed helmsman called on Reese and teammate Kamilla Cardoso to spend time in the film room next season to help improve their performances. He contended: “It’s not just player development. It’s time in the film room. We want Kamilla and Angel to be good at what they do already but we also want them to score easily.”
Cardoso also impressed during her first year in Illinois, ending her campaign having averaged 9.8 points, 7.9 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. That earned her a place in the WNBA All-Rookie Team, despite the Sky eventually missing out on a playoff place – as coach Teresa Weatherspoon paid the price for this showing with her job.
Following on from her dismissal, Chicago Sky co-owner and operating chairman Jeff Pagliocca has spoken enthusiastically after installing Marsh as her successor. She said: “We promised our fans that we would be very intentional with our next coaching hire, with the goal of being a playoff and championship contender every year.
“Coach Marsh brings a wealth of successful coaching experience and accountable leadership to our young team, and we look forward to a new era of Chicago Sky basketball with Coach Marsh at the helm.”
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Meanwhile, Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca said: “Tylers relentless work ethic, deep understanding of the game, and his ability to connect with players on a personal level set him apart. His commitment to developing each players unique strengths, along with his basketball acumen and calm, composed leadership style, make him an outstanding fit for our team.
“Tyler is known for his integrity, humility, and focus on building a culture rooted in trust and accountability. We are confident that he will lead the Sky to new heights and inspire our players and fans alike.”
Likewise, March said: “Im so grateful to be the next head coach of the Chicago Sky. Thank you to Jeff Pagliocca, Michael Alter and all of Sky ownership for their belief in me to be the next leader of this franchise. Im looking forward to building relationships with our players and throughout our entire organization as we work towards establishing a championship culture on and off the court.
“Thank you to Mark Davis, Nikki Fargas and Matt Delsen for the opportunity to be part of one of the greatest sports organizations in the world. Thank you to Coach Hammon, our staff and all of the Aces players for allowing me to make history with you as we brought the city of Las Vegas back-to-back championships. I love you all and wouldnt be in this position without you.”