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The Chicago Sky brought in a new head coach this season after missing the WNBA playoffs in 2024. Star forward Angel Reese was not happy with the decision to fire Teresa Weatherspoon, but the second-year player seems to be adjusting to life under new head coach Tyler Marsh.
With a change in leadership, the team was expected to have a massive roster overhaul this offseason, and general manager Jeff Pagliocca did just that. He let infamous backcourt member Chennedy Carter walk in free agency, and he acquired two veteran guards to take her place, signing franchise legend Courtney Vandersloot and trading for Ariel Atkins.
Chicago Sky forward Maddy Westbeld (21).MICHAEL CLUBB/SOUTH BEND TRIBUNE / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Pagliocca also attacked the draft once again, selecting Slovenian star Ajša Sivka and notable TCU guard Hailey Van Lith in the first round of the draft. However, he also made an excellent selection in the second round, taking Notre Dame forward Maddy Westbeld with the No. 16 overall pick.
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Making a WNBA roster is hard anyway, but it is an even bigger uphill battle as a second-round pick. However, the Sky have made several major transactions over the last few days, and there are only 12 players left on the team. This means that Westbeld has seemingly made Chicago’s final roster as a rookie.
Westbeld had a shaky senior season for the Fighting Irish as she played through an injury, but her first four college campaigns were as solid and consistent as they come. She averaged 11.2 points and 6.3 rebounds per game or more in each of her first four seasons, and she can score from all three levels on offense.
With her shooting ability and 6-foot-3 frame, it is truly a wonder that no other team took a flyer on her before the Sky were on the clock in the second round. There is still time for a veteran signing to throw this announcement for a loop, but it is likely that Westbeld will take the floor for Chicago in their season opener on May 17 against the Indiana Fever.
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Related: Caitlin Clark Sends 1-Word Message to Angel Reese’s Former Teammate
Related: Chicago Sky Coach Makes Exciting Hailey Van Lith Announcement Before Lynx Game
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