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The Chicago Sky face an uphill battle amid a 2-5 start to the WNBA season. Veteran guard Courtney Vandersloot was diagnosed with a torn ACL after sustaining a non-contact injury in Saturday's clash against the Indiana Fever.
Angel Reese's 36-year-old pick-and-roll partner averaged 10.6 points, 3.1 rebounds and 5.3 assists, shooting 43.9% in seven games. She was one of the Sky's most consistent players and a reliable presence at the point of attack. Coming off her second championship run with the New York Liberty, Vandersloot was expected to mentor the young Sky players, but she will now miss the rest of the season.
The 15-year veteran is in the twilight of her career, and an ACL injury at this stage could seriously hinder her prospects of returning to basketball. WNBA fans feared the worst after the Sky's announcement.
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Here are some of the reactions:
"Damn it was a good career Sloot," one fan commented.
Really hope she gets well soon though. Could be the end of Sloot’s career.
An incredible one, at that.
Courtney Vandersloot's injury opens up chances for Hailey Van Lith and potential new role for Angel Reese
The Chicago Sky might have to settle for another regular-season exit with one of their mainstays out for the season. The Sky may consider internal development, along with making a free agent signing, to resolve their woes. First-round pick Hailey Van Lith's promotion seems imminent.
It could also lead to more opportunities for Angel Reese on the ball at the top of the key. Tyler Marsh has been bold in his decision-making with her, and it won't be a surprise if Reese adopts a point-forward role for the Sky. It will help create better spacing and opportunities for Kamilla Cardoso to be more impactful down low.
Ariel Atkins is another player who may have to shoulder the playmaking burden for the team, presumably more than anyone on the perimeter, as she's one of the better ball-handlers. She's averaging 3.1 assists per game, the second-highest behind Vandersloot.
