Chicago Sky Make Surprising Hailey Van Lith Move Days Before WNBA Season
The Chicago Sky waived Hailey Van Lith, the No. 11 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, just days before their season opener, citing a mismatch with their preferred style of play. Despite limited playing time in her rookie season, Van Lith showed improvement during the preseason, averaging 12.5 points and 4.5 assists in two games. The move clears roster space for Natasha Cloud, as the Sky finalize a revamped lineup featuring several new additions.
- ▪The Chicago Sky waived Hailey Van Lith ahead of the 2025 WNBA season opener.
- ▪The decision was based on the team's style of play preference, according to ESPN's Kendra Andrews.
- ▪Van Lith averaged 12.5 points and 4.5 assists in two preseason games with Chicago.
- ▪She is now in active discussions with other teams seeking roster depth.
- ▪The Sky signed Natasha Cloud in a corresponding roster move.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
By Cole SullivanShareNewsweek is a Trust Project memberSee more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search.The Chicago Sky made several major changes this offseason and have assembled a strong roster heading into their season opener on Saturday against the Portland Fire.However, that roster now does not include No. 11 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, Hailey Van Lith, as the Sky officially waived her on Monday afternoon in a surprising move.According to ESPN’s Kendra Andrews, the decision was based on the Sky’s “style of play preference,” and Van Lith is already in active conversations with several other teams, as she is expected to be an intriguing option for organizations looking to add to their roster before…
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