Kamilla Cardoso walks away midseason as Chicago Sky tension grows

The Chicago Sky have hit another low point this season, and now they must carry on without one of their most promising players.  Kamilla Cardoso, the rookie center from Brazil, has left the team in the middle of the WNBA season to join her national squad for the upcoming FIBA Women’s AmeriCup.  The tournament, which begins on June 28, could keep her away for as long as four weeks depending on Brazil’s performance. That leaves the Sky without their third overall draft pick during a critical stretch of the schedule.

At first glance, the decision appears straightforward. Cardoso has the right to play for her country and cannot be waived while on international duty. Still, her departure has fueled speculation about deeper issues within the Sky organization.  Reports indicate that Cardoso did not feel pressured to stay, but others around the league have suggested a different climate.  Julie Vanloo, a point guard for the Golden State Valkyries, stated that teams were “not very keen” on players missing games for national team obligations.  Despite that, both Vanloo and Cardoso decided to go. That choice, while understandable, comes at a time when Chicago is floundering at 3-10 and searching for answers.

Playing time and priorities spark debate

There has been growing concern from fans over how the Sky are managing Cardoso’s development.  While she averages a respectable 11.6 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, her minutes remain inconsistent.

OUR TIME IS COMING. Kamilla is averaging 15 points per game over the last 4 games, with 7.2 rebounds and 60% shooting from the field all this without a point guard, all this without consistent playing time, all this while taking fewer shots. And still, she delivers pic.twitter.com/wXb5XxrGwM

— NOT KAMILA CARDOSO (@Everything494) June 22, 2025

Observers have voiced frustration over head coach Tyler Marsh’s decision to bench her during crucial stretches, even when her presence could have altered the outcome.  Critics have pointed to the disproportionate shot distribution between Cardoso and stars like Angel Reese and Ariel Atkins. Some fans argue that Cardoso is sidelined too often, particularly during late-game moments where her size and interior skills could make a difference.  Those concerns have only intensified now that she has left while the team struggles to stay afloat.  Although no public dispute has been confirmed between Cardoso and the coaching staff, her decision to leave at this moment has raised eyebrows.

Kamilla Cardoso is going to step away from the Chicago Sky to play for Team Brazil at the AmeriCup.

She will miss at least two (likely three or four) WNBA games over the next two weeks.

Chicago doesn’t use her like they should, instead trying to make Angel Reese a focal point… pic.twitter.com/1MfFljbzW2

— Wire Falls (@wirefalls) June 24, 2025

Her draft status gives her leverage. She cannot be cut, and any move would likely involve a trade. Still, choosing to step away midseason signals that she is not afraid to assert her own priorities.  For the Sky, her absence could not come at a worse time. The team is searching for leadership, consistency, and momentum. Cardoso’s exit, even if temporary, adds another wrinkle to a season already filled with setbacks.

The Sky must now navigate the coming weeks without one of their most promising young players. Whether this time away strengthens Cardoso’s standing or further complicates her role in Chicago remains to be seen.  What’s certain is that her decision has sparked a broader conversation about how WNBA teams support international players – and whether the Sky can keep their core intact.