Van Lith was a college standout but struggled to carve out a role in her rookie season.

Hailey Van Lith #2 of the Chicago Sky shoots the ball against Lexie Hull #10 of the Indiana Fever during the second half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on August 9, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)

Alissa Hirsh | Chicago Sun Times

The Sky waived Hailey Van Lith, their No. 11 pick in the 2025 draft. Van Lith was a college standout but struggled to carve out a role in her rookie season, averaging 3.5 points per game in 12.4 minutes.

She spent the offseason rehabbing an ankle injury that hampered her first year. She scored 20 points in her first preseason game against the Mercury on a perfect 8-for-8 from the field, but most of her playing time came against Mercury reserves.

To get Van Lith, the Sky effectively gave up the No. 11 pick in the 2026 draft (Cotie McMahon) to the Lynx. The Lynx then traded that pick to the Mystics.

The Sky’s roster now stands at 13 players. Second-year forward Maddy Westbeld, rookie Sydney Taylor, and rookie Aicha Coulibaly will likely be competing for the final spot.

The Sky will also have two development spots available. Van Lith could qualify for one of them, but first she will have to clear waivers, meaning that no other team claims her contract in the next 48 hours. ESPN reported that she’s already in active discussions with other teams.

Final rosters are due on May 7.