Hailey Van Lith has been released by the Chicago Sky, the team announced on Monday. This decision was made due to the Sky’s preference for a different style of play. According to ESPN’s Kendra Andrews, Van Lith is already in talks with several other teams.
Drafted 11th overall in 2025, Van Lith had limited playtime last season, averaging 3.5 points, 1.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists in about 12 minutes per game.
This move occurs just before the WNBA regular season begins. The Sky will kick off their season against the Portland Fire on Saturday.
The team is undergoing significant changes. They recently traded star player Angel Reese to the Atlanta Dream while bringing in fresh talent like Skylar Diggins, Rickea Jackson, and Jacy Sheldon. Veteran Natasha Cloud joined the team on Monday, which likely ties into Van Lith’s departure.
In recent years, Chicago has had five first-round picks. After trading Reese and waiving Van Lith, only two remain, including 2026 draftee Gabriela Jacquez. Ajša Sivka, picked just before Van Lith in 2025, has yet to join the squad.
Head coach Tyler Marsh is ready for his second season. After a disappointing finish last year, he aims for a stronger performance, believing the blend of experienced guards like Diggins and Cloud, along with rookies like Jacquez, fits his strategy.
Recent statistics show that the WNBA’s popularity continues to rise. According to the latest Nielsen reports, viewership for women’s basketball has jumped by 70% over the last few years. This growing interest creates a more competitive environment and heightens the stakes for teams as they build their rosters.
With shifting dynamics like these, players are constantly finding new opportunities, keeping fans engaged and eager to see how the season unfolds.
For more insights on team strategies throughout the WNBA, check out this report by the Sports Business Journal.
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Hailey Van Lith, Chicago Sky, Kendra Andrews, The Sky, Skylar Diggins, Natasha Cloud, Portland Fire, Atlanta Dream, Jacy Sheldon, Rickea Jackson, Angel Reese
