Hailey Van Lith’s basketball journey has captured the hearts of fans and analysts across the nation. Now, as the Chicago Sky’s promising new guard, her talent, resilience, and strong friendships are setting the stage for an exciting WNBA chapter. In this article, we explore Van Lith's transition into the league, her college career, and the bonds that help her shine.

Hailey Van Lith at Chicago Sky practice, preparing for her WNBA debut.

From College Success to WNBA Dreams

Hailey Van Lith earned her reputation with standout performances at Louisville before transferring to LSU for her senior year. At Louisville, she led the team to the Final Four, averaging over 15 points per game. Though her time at LSU called for a shift to point guard, a role she hadn’t played before, Van Lith adapted and kept excelling, showing her unselfish attitude and work ethic.

After experiencing a challenging season and still earning high respect among peers, Van Lith transferred to TCU for her final college season. Her leadership and skill continued to flourish, earning her MVP honors at the Big 12 tournament. The unique path she carved out in college made her stand out as a WNBA prospect. Hailey Van Lith’s journey through multiple universities and positions demonstrates her adaptability and determination.

Building Bonds: The Angel Reese Connection

One of the defining stories of Hailey Van Lith’s career is her friendship with Angel Reese. The two played one season together at LSU and maintained a close bond even after Reese went pro. Angel Reese’s support for Van Lith is well documented and genuine, offering encouragement and advice through every stage. When Van Lith was drafted by the Chicago Sky as the 11th overall pick, Reese was among her most vocal supporters. Their renewed partnership in Chicago brings a dynamic energy to the Sky’s roster. Read about the enduring friendship and mentorship between Van Lith and Angel Reese.

Early Impact with the Chicago Sky

Since joining the Chicago Sky, Van Lith has quickly turned heads. During the preseason, she averaged 6 points and 4.3 assists per game—notably impressive numbers for a rookie adjusting to a new system. Sky fans and analysts praised her refined court vision, aggressive drives, and ability to make key plays when it matters most. A recent practice video showcased her scoring skills, further fueling excitement about her potential this season. Get all the details on Van Lith's standout preseason performance and potential.

Despite a preseason loss to the Minnesota Lynx, Van Lith remained steady, contributing 8 points and 3 assists off the bench. Her ability to remain composed and productive shows the Sky made the right call in drafting her. See a breakdown of Van Lith's role in the Sky’s preseason battles.

Learning from Legends and Looking Ahead

Hailey Van Lith considers herself lucky to play alongside star veterans like Courtney Vandersloot and Ariel Atkins. Learning from these WNBA champions will be crucial as she refines her skills and adapts to the league's pace. Chicago’s coaching staff praises her adaptability and fearless attitude—traits that hint at a bright future ahead.

As the Sky prepare to face the Indiana Fever on opening night, all eyes are on Hailey Van Lith. Her journey from college star to WNBA rookie is marked by grit, lasting friendships, and a drive to win.

Stay tuned to watch Hailey Van Lith elevate her game and inspire fans during her rookie season with the Chicago Sky!