The world of women’s professional basketball has been thrown into chaos.

In what is shaping up to be one of the most explosive controversies in recent WNBA history, Angel Reese, the high-profile rookie sensation of the Chicago Sky, has reportedly been fired by the team after testing positive for steroids — a banned performance-enhancing substance under WNBA policy.

Multiple sources within the league confirmed that the 22-year-old was dismissed in the early hours of Monday morning, shortly after the organization received results from an independent drug test conducted late last month.

From Superstar to Scandal: How Did It Happen So Fast?

Angel Reese, known for her confidence, charisma, and elite rebounding ability, entered the WNBA with more fanfare than nearly any rookie before her. She was fresh off an NCAA championship with LSU, millions of social media followers, and endorsement deals that reportedly totaled over $2 million before her first professional game.

Her arrival was considered a turning point—not just for the Sky, but for the entire league.

But today, those dreams are on hold.

“This is a nightmare for the team and the league,” said one WNBA executive who requested anonymity. “Angel was the face of a new era. Now she’s the face of a scandal.”

The Timeline of the Fallout

According to insiders, the drug test was part of a routine, unannounced check during a pre-season training session. Results came back showing the presence of anabolic steroids, which are strictly prohibited by both WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) and the WNBA’s internal code of conduct.

The Sky allegedly called an emergency meeting upon receiving the results. Within 24 hours, Reese’s name was removed from all public promotional material. Her locker was cleared. By Sunday night, she was gone.

Despite the severity of the situation, the team has refused to issue an official statement, sparking even more speculation.

The Silence That Speaks Volumes

Angel Reese has remained uncharacteristically silent. Known for her bold voice online, her social media accounts have not been updated since the scandal broke. The most recent Instagram post, captioned “Still rising. Always.” now feels painfully ironic to many fans.

Her management team has also declined interview requests, offering only a cryptic message:

“We are currently reviewing all legal options and preparing a formal response.”

That response has yet to materialize.

Backlash and Shock Across the WNBA

The scandal has sent shockwaves through the WNBA community. Fans, players, and coaches have expressed a mix of outrage, sympathy, and confusion.

“This doesn’t feel like her,” said teammate Dana Evans. “She was one of the hardest workers I’ve ever met. If this is true, I just hope there’s more to the story.”

Several current and former players took to social media, calling for transparency from both the league and the Chicago Sky front office.

“We don’t throw our sisters under the bus without the full story,” tweeted Phoenix Mercury star Skylar Diggins-Smith.

The Bigger Questions: Pressure, Fame & Systemic Flaws

Many experts are now questioning whether the league’s infrastructure is equipped to handle the pressures placed on young stars like Reese.

“She came into this league not just as an athlete, but as a brand,” said sports psychologist Dr. Karen Villegas. “That kind of attention brings immense pressure. It can drive people to make desperate choices—or become easy targets for manipulation.”

Indeed, conspiracy theories are already circulating online. Some fans believe Reese may have been “set up” or unknowingly consumed tainted supplements. Others argue that racism, media bias, and jealousy toward outspoken Black athletes may be playing a role in how the story is being handled.

Regardless of the truth, the damage is done—for now.

What Happens Next?

If the allegations hold, Reese could face a multi-year ban from the league and international play. Her endorsements, including partnerships with Reebok, Amazon, and Beats by Dre, may also be in jeopardy.

Still, WNBA insiders suggest the situation is far from over. According to sources close to the Reese camp, a formal appeal is being prepared, and her legal team is investigating the testing process, including possible mishandling of samples.

Meanwhile, the WNBA Players Association has called for independent oversight and public transparency, warning that player trust in the league is “eroding rapidly.”

A Career at the Crossroads

In just one season, Angel Reese went from cultural icon to cautionary tale. Whether she returns stronger or fades from the spotlight depends on what happens in the coming weeks.

“This is the most pivotal moment of her career,” said ESPN’s Jemele Hill. “How she responds will define her legacy—fairly or unfairly.”

One thing is clear: The WNBA will never be the same.