Chicago Sky in Crisis: NBA Analysts Point to Coaching and Locker Room Turmoil

As the WNBA season heads into its critical stretch, the Chicago Sky find themselves at the center of a growing crisis—one that NBA analysts say extends far beyond just poor performance on the court. With a string of disappointing losses and visible tension within the team, experts have begun dissecting what they believe is a deep structural problem, rooted in both coaching strategy and internal dynamics.

The Sky, who once sat among the league’s top contenders just a few seasons ago, now appear fractured and out of sync. Currently sitting near the bottom of the standings, their record reflects more than just bad luck—it reflects a team in disarray.

Coaching Under Fire

One of the main targets of criticism has been head coach Teresa Weatherspoon, who took over leadership of the team with high hopes from both management and fans. However, NBA analysts have pointed out clear issues with her in-game decision-making, substitution patterns, and overall offensive strategy.

“There’s no offensive identity,” said ESPN analyst Kendrick Perkins. “You watch the Sky play, and it’s unclear who’s leading, who’s creating, or even what kind of basketball they’re trying to play. It feels like chaos.”

Former players turned commentators have also echoed that sentiment. Candace Parker, who helped lead the Sky to a championship in 2021, noted during a recent TNT segment that the team lacks communication and clarity—both hallmarks of poor coaching structure.

“Basketball is about rhythm and trust,” Parker explained. “Right now, Chicago has neither.”

Locker Room Problems Brewing

Even more concerning than the X’s and O’s are the rumors of a fractured locker room. Multiple anonymous sources have hinted at growing tension between players and coaching staff, as well as between teammates themselves.

NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski suggested that, according to league sources, “The culture inside the Sky locker room has deteriorated. There’s a sense that players are no longer on the same page, and frustration is boiling over.”

Body language during games seems to support these claims—players have been seen arguing on the bench, showing visible frustration after substitutions, and even walking off the court with minimal interaction. There’s a palpable lack of cohesion.

Leadership Void

One major concern is the absence of a true veteran leader on the floor. Since the departure of veterans like Kahleah Copper and Courtney Vandersloot, the Sky have lacked a stabilizing presence in the huddle or on the bench. Young talents like Angel Reese and Marina Mabrey are promising, but still developing the emotional maturity needed to lead a team under pressure.

Can It Be Fixed?

While the Sky are not mathematically out of playoff contention, many believe drastic changes are needed—not only in tactics but in culture.

“If the front office doesn’t act fast, this team could spiral further,” said NBA analyst Richard Jefferson. “They need leadership—on and off the court.”

Whether that means a shake-up in coaching, roster changes, or new veteran leadership, one thing is clear: Chicago Sky is in crisis, and if they don’t course-correct soon, their season—and perhaps more—could be lost.