In a swift demonstration of their budding chemistry, Chicago Sky’s first-round picks Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso showcased their synergy during a preseason showdown against the Minnesota Lynx. Reese orchestrated a clever pass to a cutting Cardoso, setting her up for an uncontested layup, providing a glimpse of the formidable frontcourt partnership they could become.

The Sky secured Cardoso with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, with Reese following closely behind just four picks later. Their seamless collaboration on Friday night suggests that this dynamic duo could pose a formidable challenge for opponents in the years ahead.

Despite their newfound camaraderie as teammates, Reese and Cardoso are no strangers to intense competition. Having faced off against each other for two years in the fiercely competitive SEC, they bring a wealth of experience and rivalry to their partnership. In their recent collegiate matchups, South Carolina, led by Cardoso, emerged victorious in both encounters against Reese’s LSU team.

Their most recent clash occurred in the SEC Tournament Championship, a heated contest where Reese delivered an impressive performance with 15 points and 13 rebounds, while Cardoso contributed eight points, six rebounds, and three blocks for the Gamecocks.

Although Cardoso was selected earlier in the WNBA Draft, Reese boasts an equally impressive collegiate resume, having been named the 2024 SEC Player of the Year and the 2023 Final Four Most Outstanding Player. With their individual accolades and shared experiences, Reese and Cardoso have the potential to form a formidable partnership on the court, poised to leave a lasting impact on the WNBA landscape.

The WNBA Draft brought together Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso under the banner of the Chicago Sky, igniting anticipation and excitement for their promising future in the league. South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley, reflecting on the Sky’s decision to pair these two dynamic players, emphasized their shared trait of competitiveness, honed through intense battles on opposing sides of the court during their time in the SEC. Despite their past rivalry, Staley expressed genuine excitement about their collaboration in Chicago, envisioning a shared pursuit of a WNBA championship for the Sky. In a light-hearted moment, she even joked about securing season tickets to cheer on Cardoso, demonstrating her unwavering support for both players as they embark on this new chapter of their careers.

ESPN’s Andraya Carter also weighed in on Reese’s potential impact in the WNBA, highlighting her astute basketball IQ and exceptional rebounding ability as key attributes that could immediately translate to success at the professional level. Carter emphasized Reese’s willingness to learn and adapt, suggesting that her versatility and energy on the court could make her a valuable asset to any team, particularly as she gains experience and guidance from veteran players.

With endorsements from influential figures in women’s basketball and a shared determination to excel in the WNBA, Reese and Cardoso are poised to make a significant impact on the league. Their journey together with the Chicago Sky promises to be filled with excitement, growth, and the potential to elevate their team to new heights of success. As they continue to hone their skills and build chemistry on the court, fans eagerly await the thrilling performances and achievements that lie ahead for these two rising stars.