Sophie Cunningham reminds Angel Reese that the team comes first

The WNBA isn’t just played on the court. It’s built in locker rooms, through gestures, and in the words players choose—or choose not—to say. Angel Reese, a key figure for the Chicago Sky, is going through a rough patch after making public comments that unsettled her teammates and coaching staff. Now, Sophie Cunningham, guard for the Indiana Fever, has weighed in with a firm stance: “There are things you just don’t say. You have to protect the locker room at all costs.”

It all started when Angel Reese was quoted by the Chicago Tribune saying she had asked management to bring in new players—or she’d consider leaving the team. Even though she later issued a public apology, the damage had already been done. The Sky suspended Reese for the first half of their September 7 game against the Las Vegas Aces. She didn’t play the second half either, citing physical discomfort. According to FirstSportz, head coach Tyler Marsh confirmed it was a last-minute decision, but the lack of communication with teammates raised more questions than answers.

“It’s not a good sign”

Sophie Cunningham didn’t hold back when asked about the incident on her podcast: “It’s not a good sign. I always put the team above my emotions. You have to protect the locker room, or trust breaks down.” The 29-year-old understands Angel Reese’s frustration, especially after two seasons filled with more losses than wins. Still, she believes airing internal issues in public only creates division.

The tension surrounding Angel Reese goes beyond Sophie Cunningham’s words—it’s also showing in off-court behavior. In a video shared by local media, Reese appeared distant during Hailey Van Lith’s birthday celebration. She didn’t join the group dynamic and kept to herself, fueling speculation about her possible exit from the team. Ironically, it was Reese who had pushed for Van Lith’s arrival in Chicago.

With just two games left in the regular season, Angel Reese’s future with the Sky remains uncertain. What’s clear is that the WNBA demands more than talent. It demands cohesion, leadership, and respect for the collective. And Sophie Cunningham, with her direct message, reminds everyone that the locker room isn’t a place for egos—it’s where teams are built.