Hailey Van Lith has been released by the Chicago Sky one year after being drafted No. 11, ending her rookie stint before 2026 begins.
A WNBA future at one of the league’s biggest markets has hit a sudden wall: the Chicago Sky have waived Hailey Van Lith just a year after selecting her with the No. 11 overall pick.
Misryoum reports the decision lands days before Chicago’s 2026 season launch, with Van Lith cut as the Sky move into the new campaign. The 24-year-old guard’s rookie year in 2025 never fully found traction, with injuries and limited court time shaping her production.
Van Lith appeared in 29 games off the bench last season, averaging 12.4 minutes and 3.5 points alongside 1.1 rebounds and 1.6 assists.. Her shooting numbers reflected the adjustment. including 33.9 percent from the field and 16.1 percent from three-point range. a sharp drop from the type of scoring openings she built in college.
From a team-building standpoint, roster decisions like this often come down to fit as much as talent. If a player’s role and on-court patterns do not match what a team wants, even a high draft pick can face a quick pivot.
Chicago had included Van Lith in both of its preseason games, but still opted to release her on the eve of the season. The Sky’s reasoning has been framed around their preferred style of play, a factor that can determine how quickly a guard earns minutes, touches, and trust.
Around the league. Misryoum understands Van Lith is already drawing interest. with reports suggesting she is in active conversations with multiple teams as she looks for a new landing spot.. For a player with a résumé that previously translated at the top level of college basketball. the challenge now is proving that same effectiveness under the WNBA’s pace and spacing.
Van Lith’s path to the draft included standout seasons across programs. moving from Louisville to LSU and then later to TSU before being taken by Chicago.. Her collegiate peak included being named Big 12 Player of the Year. but the transition to the pro game has proven tougher. especially when injuries limit rhythm.
The practical takeaway for Misryoum readers is simple: this is a high-profile reset for a talented guard, and it also signals that the Sky are prioritizing immediate tactical alignment as they head into 2026.