Angel Reese and the Chicago Sky did not have the 2025 WNBA season they were hoping for. Finishing with a 10-34 record under first-year head coach Tyler Marsh, the Sky missed out on the playoffs for a second consecutive season. Still, Reese continued to shine during her second year in the WNBA, earning an All-Star nod with averages 14.7 points, 12.6 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game.
Now, with the WNBA reaching a new collective bargaining agreement that will see the average player salary increase by nearly 400%, the 2026 season will begin on time. And Reese will enter her third year with Chicago, starting May 9, eyeing her first postseason appearance.
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Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese (5).Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
(Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images)
But for the 2026 season, the Sky plan to make a change, unveiling a new hype squad, a high-energy entertainment team that will energize the crowd during Chicago home games at Wintrust Arena. Hype squads have become common across many professional sports teams, including the Atlanta Dream.
And on Tuesday, the Sky announced they will hold fan auditions for the new hype squad beginning April 18. Chicago is looking for individuals to “energize their fans and bring excitement to Wintrust Arena” during the 2026 season. Registration is currently open to fans ages 18 and older and will close on April 10, costing $20 per person.
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“louder. bigger. better. 🔊,” the Sky wrote on X. “➡️registration is open & closes April 10th ⏳ HYPE SQUAD AUDITION APRIL 18TH — 10AM–6PM 2182 – W. MONROE STREET, CHICAGO. Energize our fans and bring nonstop excitement to Wintrust Arena this season! Lead crowd chants and fan engagement! Be the face of Chicago Sky Entertainment on game days! Support on-court contests and entertainment! Registration Fee: $20. Must be 18 years or older to register.”
Reese and the Sky will open the 2026 WNBA season against the new expansion team, Portland Fire, on May 9 at 9:00 p.m. ET.
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This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 24, 2026, where it first appeared in the WNBA section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.