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The Chicago Sky had an incredible draft class last year, selecting a duo of players that both landed on the All-Rookie team in 2024. With the No. 3 and No. 7 picks, the franchise chose South Carolina center Kamilla Cardoso and LSU forward Angel Reese, both of whom are now considered major pieces of the franchise’s future.
Although general manager Jeff Pagliocca kept his job, the Sky parted ways with head coach Teresa Weatherspoon this offseason. They replaced her with Tyler Marsh, a longtime assistant in professional basketball who most recently coached under Becky Hammon for the Las Vegas Aces.
Chicago Sky forward Ajša Sivka poses with Commissioner Cathy Engelbert at the 2025 WNBA Draft.Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Like last season, Chicago had two first-round picks in the 2025 WNBA Draft on Monday evening. After a series of trades that netted them the No. 10 selection, they made a last-minute deal on Sunday evening with the Minnesota Lynx to land the No. 11 pick as well.
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The more popular pick was TCU guard Hailey Van Lith, who the franchise selected with the No. 11 choice after leading three different college programs to the Elite 8. However, the more promising pick may be Ajša Sivka, a skilled forward from Slovenia, who Chicago picked at No. 10.
There is major uncertainty surrounding Sivka, as she may not play in the WNBA this season (via Julia Poe of the Chicago Tribune). That said, Chicago is high on her being a longterm piece of its core.
“We’re excited to have you rook,” the team wrote on X after she was selected.
Sivka starred in the French professional league last season and performed well at the Nike Hoop Summit in 2024 as well. She also represented her home country in a number of international events, which is what made her appeal to general manager Jeff Pagliocca.
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“Forwards who can stretch the floor will always hold high value in this game, and that’s exactly what Ajša Sivka provides,” Pagliocca said. “We’re excited to land someone who is not only skilled but has been playing at a high level professionally for years.”
The Chicago Sky will take the court for the first time on the opening night of the WNBA season. Sivka and her teammates will take on Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever on May 17.
Related: Chicago Sky Send 2-Word Message to Angel Reese, Hailey Van Lith
Related: Angel Reese’s 3-Word Reaction to Chicago Sky’s WNBA Draft Move
Related: Fans React to Angel Reese’s Clear Message Ahead of WNBA Draft
