The Chicago Sky’s struggles are painfully obvious. Eight wins, 22 losses, and a brutal nine defeats in their last 10 games tell the story of a season spiraling out of control. Tonight’s clash with the Indiana Fever isn’t just another game, it’s a desperate attempt to salvage something from what’s become a nightmare campaign. But the question haunting every Sky fan remains: can they compete without their franchise cornerstone on the court?
Will Angel Reese Suit Up Tonight Against the Indiana Fever?
The answer is a definitive no. According to ESPN’s latest injury report, Reese has been ruled out for tonight’s August 9 game against the Fever. The news delivers another crushing blow to a Chicago team already battling inconsistency and mounting injuries throughout the 2025 campaign.
The uncertainty surrounding Reese’s status has been lingering for weeks. Before the August 5 game against the Washington Mystics, Sky head coach Tyler Marsh offered little clarity during a pregame interview, explaining there’s no concrete timeline for Reese’s return.
“There isn’t a concrete timetable. It’s to the extent that I know, it’s a back injury, and she continues to be day-to-day. I mentioned earlier that she wasn’t here for shoot-around due to an illness. I think she’s progressing, but it’s still wait and see,” said Marsh during the interview.
No official timetable yet for Angel Reese’s return, per Coach Tyler Marsh. @Winsidr pic.twitter.com/ahgf8RJxBI
— C. C.,Esq. (@ItsCwaysWorld) August 5, 2025
Reese’s injury saga began in late July when persistent back discomfort forced her to miss two straight games on July 24 against the Seattle Storm and July 27 versus the Indiana Fever. She made a triumphant return on July 29 against the Mystics, putting up an impressive double-double of 22 points and 13 rebounds that reminded everyone why she’s so crucial to Chicago’s success.
However, that momentum proved fleeting. Since that strong performance, Reese has been sidelined for four more contests: August 1 against the Golden State Valkyries, August 3 versus the Phoenix Mercury, August 5 against Washington Mystics, and August 7 versus the Atlanta Dream. Tonight’s game will mark her eighth absence of the season, a significant chunk of games for any team’s star player.
The Sky’s injury woes extend far beyond just Reese. Several other key players are dealing with their own physical setbacks:
- Hailey Van Lith – Questionable (Ankle Issue)
- Ariel Atkins – Questionable (Leg Issue)
- Michaela Onyenwere – Probable (Knee Issue)
- Courtney Vandersloot – Out for the Season (Knee issue)
Which Players Are the Indiana Fever Squad Missing?
The Fever are wrestling with their own injury concerns heading into tonight’s matchup. Their injury list includes several notable absences that could impact the game’s dynamics:
- Caitlin Clark – Out (Groin Issue)
- Sydney Colson – Out for the Season (Torn Left ACL)
- Aari McDonald – Out for the Season (Broken Right Foot Bone)
A lengthy injury report on both sides for Indiana vs. Chicago tomorrow.
Natasha Howard (who got hit in the head on Thursday, didn’t return) and Sophie Cunningham (tweaked her left ankle) aren’t listed for the Fever. pic.twitter.com/7kmMy0aTho
— Chloe Peterson (@chloepeterson67) August 8, 2025
The numbers surrounding Reese’s absence paint a stark picture of just how much the Sky miss their star forward. According to Polymarket Hoops, Chicago has been outscored by an average margin of 22.3 points in the seven games she’s missed this season. That’s not just losing, that’s getting blown out on a regular basis.
The Sky are 1-6 without Angel Reese this season.
Losing by an average margin of 22.3 PPG pic.twitter.com/MbKtVzrsvC
— Polymarket Hoops (@PolymarketHoops) August 8, 2025
Despite the challenging circumstances, the Sky still have players who can potentially step up and make an impact. Kamilla Cardoso and Rachel Banham have been consistent contributors, averaging 12.6 and 9.5 points per game respectively. If both can deliver efficient scoring performances and the supporting cast rallies around them, Chicago might find a way to pull off what would be a surprising victory.
Tonight’s game tips off at 8 p.m. ET at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. While Reese won’t be taking the court, the Sky will need every other player to dig deep and fight for what could be a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season.
