Key Takeaways:
– Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, former rivals, are now teammates at the Chicago Sky, following the recent WNBA draft.
– Both players have an impressive track record with their respective former teams, contributing immense talent to the Chicago Sky.
– Reese and Cardoso, despite their past competition, advocate for their rivalry to improve their performance and competitiveness.
– Reese expects to start immediately while Cardoso will be considered a long-term project.
Angel Reese Joins Forces with Kamilla Cardoso at Chicago Sky
Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, earlier adversaries in the basketball world, have found common ground as teammates with Chicago Sky. Their transition follows the recent WNBA draft, where they were among the top seven picks. Cardoso secured the third place while Reese sprang in at number seven. Their track records show formidable skill, with Reese averaging 16.5 points and 8.8 rebounds per game and Cardoso, in response, disrupting her efficiency.
Reese curatorily highlights, “Me and Kamilla competed hard all these years… But we’re just competitors and that’s just what we do.” The intense competitiveness and rivalry fostered during their presence in the Southeastern Conference are now expected to drive Chicago Sky to new heights.
A Refreshed Chicago Sky: Bolstering Talent with Reese and Cardoso
Reese’s arrival has invigorated the Chicago Sky, following a surprising championship victory in 2021 under the guidance of ex-coach James Wade. Wade’s departure to the Raptors prompted the introduction of Teresa Witherspoon as the new head coach and simultaneously triggered the integration of Reese and Cardoso as potential cornerstones for the team.
Reese exudes a winning spirit, stating, “Being able to go into practice and want to win every drill, want to do everything to perfection…” She wishes to set an extraordinary standard and aims to drive her team to unprecedented success. Reese is anticipated to quickly establish her presence in Chicago, while Cardoso will gradually earn her permanent spot.
Reese sees Rivalry with Cardoso as a pathway to Improvement
Reese’s prior competition with Cardoso, in her eyes, provides an arena for progression and development. “We’re going to be fighting over rebounds,” she laughs off in a lighter vein. The prospect of battling with a hard-working teammate every day evidently excites her.
Reese continues, “If I miss a defensive assignment, she’s going to be there. If she misses a defensive assignment, I’m going to be there.” The mutual anticipation to back each other best demonstrates their complementary nature.
Pairing Strength through Competition
With Cardoso as a teammate, not a rival, Reese expresses admiration for her decisive moves to the rim. The pair showcased their chemistry during the preseason opener, with Reese assisting a highlight-worthy play featuring Cardoso. The reciprocal back-up offered by both Angels fuels their game.
It’s safe to say that for Reese, the reconciliation with her former competitor Cardoso will promise an intensive playground for honing skills. The drive to compete and attain perfection showcased by both players should provide a significant boost to the Chicago Sky.
This refreshed squad, led by Reese and Cardoso, is expected to hit the ground running and demonstrate why the rivalry-turned-partnership could be a game-changer in the coming season.