Chicago City Wire

The Chicago Sky has announced the addition of Rena Wakama to Head Coach Tyler Marsh’s staff as an assistant coach. This appointment follows the recent naming of Courtney Paris and Tanisha Wright as assistant coaches for the team.

"Rena has proven that she has a winning mindset and attitude," said Marsh. "We’ve seen her success this past summer with the Nigerian National Team at the Olympics, building on an impressive winning record and extensive background in coaching and player development. She is an excellent young leader and coach who will make a significant impact on the Sky’s program."

Wakama gained recognition after leading the Nigerian Women’s National Team to notable achievements during the 2024 Paris Olympics. She became Nigeria's Women's National Basketball Head Coach in June 2023, making history by being the first female coach to win the Women’s AfroBasketball title in August 2023. Under her leadership, Nigeria reached the quarterfinals stage, a milestone for African teams in Olympic basketball history. Her accomplishments earned her FIBA's Best Coach award following her performance in Paris.

"I am honored and thankful for Jeff and Tyler for granting me the opportunity to join the Chicago Sky family," Wakama expressed. "Tyler has one of the best basketball minds in the industry and I’m excited to help him bring his vision to life. I look forward to serving this organization and working alongside other brilliant minds on staff to create a brand of basketball that is not only competitive but also fun to watch! Let’s get to work!"

Originally from Raleigh, North Carolina, Wakama joined Tulane's coaching staff as an assistant coach in 2024 after spending time at Stony Brook University from 2023-24, where she contributed to a successful season with a 28-5 overall record.

Her career also includes six years at Manhattan College as director of basketball operations before becoming an assistant coach with their team. As a collegiate player at Western Carolina University from 2010-14, Wakama earned Southern Conference All-Tournament Second Team Honors and was recognized three times on SoCon Academic Teams.

The Chicago Sky will begin their regular season on May 17 against Indiana at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. They have scheduled preseason games against Minnesota on May 6 and 10, as well as a match against Brazil's National Team on May 2 at LSU.