When Hailey Van Lith joined the Chicago Sky as the 11th overall pick in this year’s WNBA draft, she entered with strong expectations based on her impressive final season at TCU. Van Lith had averaged 17.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, shooting 45.2% from the field and 33.8% from beyond the arc. These numbers attracted the Sky, who hoped she would bring similar productivity to the professional level. However, her rookie year stats have fallen short of those projections, as she currently averages just 4.2 points, 1.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, along with a 34.4% field goal percentage and an alarming 16.7% from three-point range.
Angel Reese’s Support Bolsters Van Lith Amid Shooting Struggles
Despite Van Lith’s difficulties, especially with her three-point shooting, her teammates have not lost faith in her abilities. Angel Reese, in particular, remains a strong supporter. Van Lith shared her perspective in an interview with Renee Montgomery, describing the connection they have on the court:
“I think I know Angel’s game pretty well now,”
she said.
“I know whenever I give it to her, she’s a very willing passer. She’s always yelling at me to knock threes down. So whenever she has the ball and I’m in the vicinity, I’m 100% moving my feet to try and get a window to be open because I know that she’s looking for me.”
—Hailey Van Lith, Chicago Sky guard
Focus Shifts From Immediate Wins to Long-Term Development
The Sky’s season has been disappointing, with their playoff chances effectively dashed as they sit 13 games below a .500 record. Given this context, Chicago’s priority is no longer solely about winning more games but emphasizes player growth, particularly for young talents like Van Lith and Reese. The team hopes that Van Lith can eventually elevate her production and shooting efficiency as she settles into her role. She herself recognizes progress in improving her shot selection and consistency:
“I think sealing shots like that, where I can just get my feet set and catch and shoot, has been huge for me to not pass up at this level.”
—Hailey Van Lith, Chicago Sky guard
Looking Ahead: Development As the Team’s Main Goal
Chicago’s current challenges highlight the reality of transitioning from collegiate basketball to the professional stage, especially for promising rookies facing the pressures of expectation. Angel Reese’s ongoing support for Van Lith illustrates the team’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent despite on-court struggles. While the Sky’s focus this season revolves around development and adjusting strategies, the hope remains that both players will contribute significantly to the team’s future success. As the season progresses, Van Lith’s adaptation and growth could become integral parts of Chicago’s rebuilding efforts.