In a revelation that’s sending shockwaves through the WNBA world, Chicago Sky interim head coach Tyler Marsh has broken his silence on the controversial benching of rookie sensation Angel Reese — and his explanation is not what many expected.

After a string of impressive performances and double-doubles, Reese was unexpectedly pulled from the starting lineup during a high-stakes game last week. The decision immediately drew confusion and criticism from fans, analysts, and former players alike, with many questioning whether there was more to the story than just a “coaching decision.” Now, Marsh has opened up — and his comments shed new light on what really happened behind the scenes.

Speaking to reporters after practice, Marsh was direct: “Angel is a phenomenal player, but sometimes decisions have to be made in the best interest of the team’s growth, not just one person’s momentum,” he said. “It wasn’t about punishing her. It was about sending a message — and giving her a reset moment.”

Marsh clarified that the benching had nothing to do with attitude or effort, but rather focus, discipline, and accountability — both on and off the court. According to him, the coaching staff had several internal conversations about defensive lapses, communication breakdowns, and moments where the young roster needed to tighten up their execution. Reese, as one of the team’s focal points, was included in those conversations.

“We’re not here to embarrass or sideline a player who’s made headlines across the league,” Marsh said. “But this is professional basketball. Every possession matters. Every detail counts. Angel is learning that, and she’s embracing the challenge.”

Sources close to the team say the decision was not taken lightly and that Reese was informed well before the game. Though initially disappointed, she reportedly responded with maturity, staying engaged from the bench and continuing to support her teammates vocally throughout the night. Cameras caught her animated on the sideline, cheering on her squad and discussing plays with assistants — a clear sign that the rookie wasn’t sulking but staying locked in.

The move sparked an immediate debate online, with some fans calling it disrespectful while others praised Marsh for holding all players, even stars, to the same standard. Reese herself has not made a public statement on the benching, but her social media activity suggests she’s channeling the moment as motivation. She posted a cryptic message just hours after the game: “Bet. I hear everything. Watch me respond.”

And respond she did. In the very next outing, Reese returned to the floor with her signature fire, notching another double-double and putting on a defensive clinic in the second half. Marsh praised her response, saying, “That’s exactly what we want — accountability followed by action. Angel is one of the most competitive players I’ve ever coached. She’s going to be better because of this.”

The Sky are currently fighting to establish themselves in a tight playoff race, and Marsh made it clear that decisions like this are about team-first culture. “We’re building something that lasts. That means tough conversations, hard moments, and growth for everybody — coaches included,” he said.

With the spotlight constantly on Reese, who’s become one of the league’s biggest rookie draws alongside Caitlin Clark, every coaching decision involving her is bound to generate attention. But Marsh appears undeterred, emphasizing that development, not drama, is the priority.

As the Sky look to climb the standings, it’s clear this team isn’t afraid to make bold moves — even if they involve their biggest name. And if Angel Reese’s response is any indication, the message has been received loud and clear.