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Maddy Westbeld Reflects on Rookie Season, Sky’s Supportive Culture: ‘People Make the Experience’

The WNBA forward opens up about adjusting to pro life, staying grounded on the road and leaning on veteran wisdom—on and off the court.

Ananya Panchal

Maddy Westbeld
Maddy Westbeld / Gary Dineen/Getty Images

Chicago Sky forward Maddy Westbeld is only a few months into her rookie season, but she’s already found something many athletes spend years searching for: joy.

The Notre Dame alum was selected 16th overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft, joining a re-energized Sky roster full of standout rookies and seasoned veterans. The transition from college to professional basketball is never simple, but for Westbeld, the shift has offered more than just new challenges—it’s also brought an unexpected comfort.

Finding Joy in the Rookie Grind

“The biggest adjustment I’ve made from college to pro is mainly prioritizing myself as an entity,” the 23-year-old tells SI Swimsuit. “I’ve learned to not compromise about the things that I need to feel my best to perform my best.”

That self-awareness has been matched by the energy of her new teammates. Westbeld credits the Sky’s veteran leadership for helping her navigate her first season with perspective and support. One conversation in particular stands out.

“A moment that has stuck with me was talking to one of my vets about how I haven’t played with this much joy in a long time,” The Ohio native says. “And she said the same thing for herself. She’s been in the league for about 10 years and that stuck with me. It’s made me really appreciate the people I have around me—it’s always the people that make the experience.”

Maddy Westbeld
Maddy Westbeld / Jeff Haynes/Getty Images

That sense of community has been crucial as she balances a steep learning curve, a packed travel schedule and the pressure of adapting to a new level of competition. While Westbeld is still building her rhythm on the court, her confidence and presence are already making an impact within the organization—and the fashion landscape.

Sisterhood and Support

Besides team support, Westbeld also has the guidance—and the unwavering encouragement—of her older sister, Kathryn, who currently plays for the Phoenix Mercury.

“My sister is my best friend; her story is really inspiring and I have a front row seat,” she shares of the 29-year-old athlete. “I’ve watched it closely and have observed her character throughout her journey. She is and always will be my greatest role model.”

The bond between the siblings has only strengthened since both made it to the WNBA. “I’m just her biggest fan in everything that she does,” Westbeld adds.

A Wellness-First Approach to the Game

Even amid the intensity of WNBA life, Westbeld maintains a holistic approach to her well-being. One way she stays grounded is through Pilates—a daily ritual she’s adapted for life on the road.

“I do Pilates just about every day,” she shares. “It’s important to me to get my body moving when we’re in the air and on the road all the time. I like to find the gym in the hotel, set my laptop down, play a video with a Pilates instructor and follow along.”

Westbeld particularly enjoys Move With Nicole and Melania Antuchas.

That commitment to care—both physical and emotional—has shaped the way Westbeld is approaching her rookie year. She’s making the most of her limited minutes, averaging 1.7 points and 2.2 rebounds per game, and she’s not just focused on stats or accolades, but on building a sustainable, intentional career.

And if joy is any measure of success, she’s already off to an incredible start.

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