Full Breakdown
Hailey Van Lith Moves from Chicago Sky to Connecticut Sun
5/7/2026, 11:56:14 AM
Waiver and Claim: Van Lith Leaves Chicago, Joins Connecticut
On Monday, the Chicago Sky placed 24-year-old guard Hailey Van Lith on waivers. Two days later, the Connecticut Sun claimed her, adding the former No. 11 overall pick in the 2025 draft before the final roster deadline.
Chicago Sky Roster Overhaul and Van Lith’s Rookie Season
Chicago’s decision came amid a broader roster reshuffle. The Sky, who finished 2025 tied for the league’s worst record at 10-34, cited a “style-of-play preference” from head coach Tyler Marsh. The move cleared a spot for veteran point guard Natasha Cloud. Van Lith appeared in 29 games, averaging 3.5 points, 1.1 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 12.4 minutes, while dealing with an ankle injury.
Van Lith’s Performance Metrics
In preseason, Van Lith posted 20 points on perfect 8-for-8 shooting against Phoenix and added five points versus Atlanta, finishing with a 12.5-point average, 4.5 assists and 71.4 % field-goal shooting over two games. She shot 16.1 % from three and averaged 1.2 turnovers per game. Her senior year at TCU produced 17.9 points, 5.4 assists and 33.8 % three-point shooting, and she earned a gold medal at the 2023 3×3 World Cup and bronze at the 2024 Olympic 3×3 tournament.
Official Statements & Responses
Sun president Jen Rizzotti highlighted Van Lith’s familiarity with the organization, noting she previously played under Rizzotti on USA’s 3×3 teams at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Chicago’s coaching staff emphasized the “style-of-play preference” as the primary factor in the waiver. Brittney Griner publicly welcomed Van Lith with an enthusiastic social-media post.
Criticism and Concerns
Analysts highlighted Van Lith’s 16.1 % three-point shooting as a weakness that may limit her impact. The swift waiver of a recent first-round pick raised eyebrows, prompting questions about Chicago’s emphasis on experience over rookie development.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources differ on the Sun’s opener: some list the New York Liberty at Barclays Center on May 8, others cite a home game versus the Seattle Storm. No official schedule confirmation appears.
Verbatim Quotes
- “style-of-play preference.” — Chicago Sky coaching staff (source)
- “1% from 3-point range as a member of the Sky.” — season statistics (source)
- “HVL ???. CT young and turnt for real ? I love it ?,” — Brittney Griner, Connecticut Sun center
- “Oh we love the Sun over here.” — Hailey Van Lith, guard
What’s Next
The Sun will finalize their 12-player roster before Thursday’s deadline and open the 2026 season on May 8, giving Van Lith her first regular-season opportunity.
