The Chicago Sky’s dismal season in the WNBA shows no signs of improving.

Their latest defeat, a lopsided loss to the Indiana Fever, only underscores that many things are not going right, starting with what happens during practice sessions. The situation is further complicated by the continued absence of Angel Reese, who has now missed five consecutive games due to injury.

This marked the fifth straight game the 23-year-old Sky star has been sidelined with lingering back problems that have prevented her from taking the court to help her team.

Her absence has deprived Chicago of one of its most impactful players, someone who could at least soften the sting of defeat, if not prevent it. The latest loss, a 92-70 rout at the hands of the Fever, was another blow in a season full of them.

In many ways, this matchup could have been dubbed “the hospital game.” On the Sky’s side, Reese was unavailable, but the Fever were also dealing with significant injury woes.

Their marquee player, Caitlin Clark, could not suit up to aid her teammates, though she did lend her support from the bench.

The loss to Chicago marked Clark’s 10th consecutive missed game as she continues to recover from a nagging groin injury. She was not alone on the injury list-teammates Aari McDonald and Sydney Colson were each diagnosed with injuries that will sideline them for the remainder of the season.

A picture that seems to speak volumes

An hour after the game against the Fever ended, Angel Reese posted an image to her Instagram stories that appeared cryptic, perhaps sending a coded message to anyone who might understand it.

The photo featured a full moon dominating the frame, without any caption or accompanying text. Known for being expressive on social media, Reese’s choice of image sparked speculation.

It could have been meant to convey something specific, or perhaps it was simply an appreciation of the moon’s beauty-a constant presence in Earth’s night sky.

Game Recap: Sky vs. Fever (8/9/25)

Investigation into alleged racist comments toward Reese

Earlier this year, the WNBA launched an investigation to determine whether the Sky forward had been subjected to racist insults from Indiana Fever fans during the season opener at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on May 17.

After an exhaustive review of all available evidence, the league concluded there was no corroboration of the claims. The investigation found nothing to substantiate the allegations, and as a result, the matter was closed without further action.

The awaited return of Angel Reese

No exact timeline has been set for Reese’s return. Head coach Tyler Mash has emphasized that the player is fully focused on her recovery, which is why she did not attend the game against the Fever.

The Sky’s next matchup comes Wednesday against the league’s bottom-ranked team, the Connecticut Sun. Fans, coaches, and teammates are hopeful that Reese will be ready to rejoin the WNBA hardwood for that contest.