Hailey Van Lith, arguably the most exciting newcomer to women’s college hoops in years, made it official on May 17, 2025, with the Chicago Sky, facing longtime nemesis Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever. Although the box score went the Fever’s way in a 93–58 thrashing, Van Lith’s first game nonetheless represented the start of a narrative fans have been patiently awaiting to unfold.
From College Star to Pro Rookie
Van Lith’s journey to the WNBA reads like a sports drama script—full of grit, growth, and game-changing moments. Following a stellar beginning at Louisville, a championship-starved season with LSU, and a victorious last campaign with TCU—during which she guided the Horned Frogs to their inaugural Big 12 regular-season and tournament championships—she was drafted 11th overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Sky.
In spite of an ankle sprain that had her initially marked as “questionable,” she toughed it out and dressed for her first game. That determination was a harbinger: Hailey Van Lith is here not only to play but to make an impact.
Reunion with Angel Reese: Chemistry Reloaded
Adding to the thrill of her WNBA debut is her reunion with former college teammate Angel Reese, reigniting a powerful on-court partnership fans already know and love. The two developed unbreakable on-court chemistry while playing in college, and they now have the opportunity to take the Sky to the next level on the professional level.
While Reese had a strong game against the Fever, Van Lith gave glimpses of that signature speed and fire. The box score might not have impressed this time, but fans are familiar with her game being about rhythm—and when she finds hers, look out for defenses.
Battle with Caitlin Clark: A Rekindled Rivalry
You can’t write the script any better: Van Lith’s introduction came against Caitlin Clark, the No. 1 draft pick and her college rival. Clark put on a triple-double show, but that’s only the spark that fuels what may be the WNBA’s next classic rivalry. Get ready for fireworks every time these two put on the sneakers together.
Strength Through Struggles: A Mental Health Advocate
It’s this depth of character that elevates Van Lith beyond just being an athlete. She’s been honest about her college struggles with mental health, referring to them as the “darkest moments of my life.” Her honesty and courage to overcome adversity have gained her tremendous respect beyond the basketball world. She attributes it all to her faith and support system for getting her back to confidence and happiness.
SportSnip Analysis: Why Hailey Van Lith is Important in the WNBA
Hailey Van Lith enters the WNBA with a unique fusion of passion, poise, and unshakable determination. She’s a scorer, but also a motivator, competitor, and leader. Though she will likely take a short term to adjust to the professional rhythm, her track record of adapting and performing at each level promises that it won’t be long before she’s a cornerstone for the Sky.
With the support of the veterans, the reunion with Reese, and the chip on her shoulder from battles in college, Hailey Van Lith might just be the pulse of Chicago’s rebuild.
Final Word
Hailey Van Lith’s WNBA debut might have arrived in a tough defeat, but it was also a forceful step into a league in which she could flourish. For viewers, it’s an opportunity to see a new era of women’s basketball unfold. For the Chicago Sky, it’s the beginning of something bold, emotional, and exciting.
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