The Chicago Sky are moving on quickly from Angel Reese as they have acquired a new double-digit scorer in Rickea Jackson from the Los Angeles Sparks.
The Sky made headlines last week when they decided to part ways with their All-Star, Reese, who averaged 14.7 points and 12.6 rebounds last season. The separation reportedly stems from the forward’s criticism of the team and her teammates.
Jackson, who was the fourth overall pick in 2024, averaged 14 points and 3.6 rebounds last season while shooting 43.9% from the field. The Sky acquired her by sending guard Ariel Watkins to the Sparks.
“It’s thrilling to acquire one of the great young talents in this league in Jackson,” Sky general manager Jeff Pagliocca said in a statement.
“Rickea is only going to continue to ascend, and the organization is excited to witness that growth firsthand.”
Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
The Sky front office feels optimistic about its partnership with Jackson. The team is moving on quickly from Reese, and it appears they are ready to turn the page—at least according to her fans.
Jackson received her jersey number shortly after the announcement. She will wear No. 5, the same number Reese wore for the team.
Fans thought this is intentional on the part of the Sky and it is aimed at Reese.
“Damn gave my girl number away quick as hell,” one commenter said.
“Damn wasted no time, gave her Angel’s #,” said another.
They think they did Reese dirty.
“Rickea Jackson gonna look good asf in that Chicago sky uniform but yall should’ve picked any other number than five lmaoo.”
“Yall gave her 5?! Nasty work,” a strong reaction from another user reads.
“oh yall hated my girl”
“Yall are sick”
As for Reese, she is now focusing on her new team, the Atlanta Dream, which has already seen financial gains following the move, with ticket sales increasing and her jersey selling out. Dream general manager Dan Padover said acquiring her was an opportunity they can’t pass up.
“We always look forward,” Padover said. “To get an opportunity to bring a player of Angel’s talent in, and someone that our players deeply respect, for us, it was a no-brainer.”
“She makes us more versatile on offense,” he said. “She’s going to get us extra possessions [with her rebounding].
Related: Angel Reese Makes Announcement After Dream Trade