Angel Reese didn’t play, but she sent signals from Instagram — hidden message?

The Chicago Sky didn’t just suffer a crushing 92-70 defeat against the Indiana Fever — they lost their spark, their energy, and their leadership. The reason?. Angel Reese, the player who usually fuels the team emotionally and competitively, was missing once again. Saturday marked her fifth straight game sidelined due to a lingering back injury that’s kept her in rehab.

But even though Angel Reese wasn’t in Indianapolis, she still made noise. About an hour after the game, she posted a photo to her Instagram stories: a full moon, no caption, no context. For an athlete as expressive and media-savvy as Reese, that kind of visual silence spoke volumes. Was it a coded message? A personal reflection? Bottled-up frustration? No one knows for sure — but everyone noticed.

Absence that hit hard According to Athlon Sports, Angel Reese’s absence was deeply felt. The Sky couldn’t keep up with a Fever squad that was also dealing with its own injury crisis. Caitlin Clark, another major WNBA star, missed her tenth consecutive game due to a groin injury. On top of that, guards Aari McDonald and Sydney Colson were ruled out for the rest of the season. Still, Indiana dominated from start to finish.

Angel Reese on IG after the Sky’s blowout loss to the Fever

(via @angelreese5 on IG) pic.twitter.com/9EfSIHE21X

— Paolo Songco (@PaoloSongcoNBA) August 10, 2025

The story between Angel Reese and the Fever runs deeper. As reported by Okdiario, earlier this season the WNBA investigated allegations of racist comments from Fever fans directed at Reese during the season opener at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Although the league couldn’t confirm the accusations after reviewing footage and interviewing fans and staff, the incident left a mark.

Uncertain return

Angel Reese, 23, entered the WNBA with star power after her standout career at LSU. Her fierce playing style, charisma, and ability to connect with fans have made her a central figure both on and off the court. But her injury has slowed that momentum. Coach Tyler Marsh confirmed that Reese is focused on her recovery, which is why she didn’t travel with the team.

The Sky’s next game is against the Connecticut Sun, currently the league’s worst-performing team. It’s a chance to bounce back — if Angel Reese is ready. For now, her return remains uncertain. What’s not uncertain is her impact. Even from afar, Angel Reese continues to be the center of attention.