The Chicago Sky are still searching for traction early in the WNBA season as the lost to the New York Liberty 85-66 on Tuesday night. Former South Carolina superstar Kamilla Cardoso and longtime SEC rival Angel Reese are teammates on the Sky, a pairing that has sparked major buzz since both were drafted in the first round of the 2024 WNBA Draft.
Cardoso went No. 3 overall after leading the Gamecocks to the national championship and earning Most Outstanding Player honors. Reese, on the other hand, is a controversial forward from LSU, who earned a 2023 NCAA championship and was drafted No. 7. After years of battling in the paint, they are now trying to build a foundation together in Chicago.
Now in their second season in the pros, the two stars are aiding in the rebuild of the Chicago Sky franchise, but it is a journey that comes with growing pains. Reese has drawn criticism for her shooting struggles despite averaging a double-double (10.1 points, 12.1 rebounds). She is shooting 35.8% from the field and 33.3% from three, but she is not backing down from the criticism and pressure.
In a recent Instagram post after their game, Reese shared a series of photos with the caption: "Every successful person you admire survived a season you didn't see. Idols turn into rivals. Everything becomes about survival."
And her teammate and former Gamecock rival, Kamilla Cardoso chimed in on the post with support, saying: “Keep going 5! ❤️”
While Cardoso's rookie season was more efficient, averaging 9.7 points 7.9 rebounds, and shooting over 50%, she is also still adjusting to the pros. So far this season, Cardoso is averaging 10.5 points and 6.5 boards while shooting over 50% from the floor and 75% from the line.
Fans from Gamecock Nation remember Cardoso's poise in the spotlight. From towering over the SEC to dominating Iowa in the national title game, the former South Carolina star is no stranger to pressure. And now, alongside Reese, she is trying to bring that championship energy and comradery to the Windy City.