In a surprising move, the Chicago Sky have fired head coach Teresa Weatherspoon after just one season, according to a report by Annie Costabile.
Hired less than a year ago, Weatherspoon led the team to a 13-27 record, marking the Sky’s first playoff absence since 2018.
Weatherspoon, a basketball Hall of Famer and two-time WNBA Defensive Player of the Year, came to Chicago with a reputation for her fierce defensive play and player development skills.
Before joining the Sky, she served as an assistant coach for the New Orleans Pelicans, where she honed her craft working with some of the NBA’s top talent.
Despite her pedigree, Weatherspoon’s transition into head coaching in the WNBA sometimes appeared rocky.
The disconnect between her and the players was evident throughout the season, making it clear she was learning on the job.
Despite the challenges, Weatherspoon had the backing of one of the team’s rising stars, rookie forward Angel Reese.
Reese, who had developed a close bond with Weatherspoon, took to social media to express her heartbreak over the news.
“I’m heartbroken,” Reese shared in an emotional post. “She was the only person that believed in me. Many don’t know what it’s like to be a Black woman in sports when nobody believes in you.”
Reese’s tribute highlights the impact Weatherspoon had on the young forward, crediting her for providing guidance and belief during pivotal moments.
“You didn’t deserve this but I can’t thank you enough. I love you, Tspoon,” she added.
The decision to part ways with Weatherspoon leaves a void in the Chicago Sky’s leadership as the team looks to rebound from a disappointing season.
As the franchise moves forward, it remains to be seen who will step up to lead them in the highly competitive WNBA landscape.
With Weatherspoon’s departure, the Chicago Sky are now faced with the challenge of finding a head coach capable of navigating the pressures of the WNBA while developing a roster that can return to playoff form.
Teresa Weatherspoon’s tenure may have been short, but her influence on players like Angel Reese shows her impact went far beyond wins and losses.
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Source: CBS Sports
