Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso Illuminate Chicago Sky’s Promising Future in WNBA Preseason Debut

In a captivating display of on-court chemistry, Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso, the first-round selections of the Chicago Sky in the highly anticipated 2024 WNBA Draft, wasted no time in showcasing their burgeoning partnership during the team’s preseason showdown against the Minnesota Lynx. With Reese orchestrating a brilliantly executed assist to Cardoso for an easy layup, the duo provided a tantalizing glimpse into the potential they hold as a formidable force in the league.

Selected with the No. 3 overall pick, Cardoso’s arrival to the Sky was closely followed by Reese, who was chosen just four picks later. Their immediate impact in Friday night’s game not only hinted at the headaches they could potentially inflict on opposing teams but also signaled the emergence of a potent frontcourt pairing that could shape the Sky’s future success in the WNBA.

However, beneath the surface of their seamless on-court collaboration lies a backstory of intense competition. Reese and Cardoso, former adversaries on the college basketball stage, engaged in spirited battles during their tenure in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Their collegiate rivalry reached its zenith during matchups between South Carolina and LSU, with Cardoso’s Gamecocks prevailing in both encounters during the past season.

Their last showdown occurred in the high-stakes SEC Tournament Championship, where Reese delivered a standout performance, tallying 15 points and 13 rebounds, while Cardoso showcased her prowess with eight points, six rebounds, and three blocks for the Gamecocks.

Despite Cardoso being selected earlier in the WNBA Draft, Reese boasts an equally illustrious collegiate resume, garnering accolades such as the 2024 SEC Player of the Year and the 2023 Final Four Most Outstanding Player. Together, they represent a formidable tandem poised to leave an indelible mark on the professional basketball landscape.

South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley, who witnessed their collegiate clashes firsthand, expressed her excitement about the Sky’s decision to unite the former rivals, acknowledging their transition from adversaries to teammates. Staley’s unwavering support for Cardoso, evidenced by her pledge to secure season tickets to cheer on the budding star, underscores the potential she sees in the dynamic duo.

ESPN analyst Andraya Carter also weighed in on Reese’s potential impact at the professional level, highlighting her versatility and innate basketball IQ as assets that could seamlessly translate to the WNBA stage. With Reese and Cardoso poised to embark on their WNBA journey together, the anticipation for their future contributions continues to swell, with fans, coaches, and analysts alike eagerly awaiting their transformational impact on the court.