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Hailey Van Lith Sends 3-Word Message Before WNBA Debut Against Caitlin Clark

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Levi M. Dombro | Last updated May 17, 2025 1:59 PM ET

The Chicago Sky needed a young guard to supplement post players Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso. Their solution this offseason was to select TCU guard Hailey Van Lith in the first round of the 2025 WNBA Draft.

Van Lith had an excellent senior campaign for the Horned Frogs, winning the Big 12 Conference Player of the Year Award. She was also an All-American in her final campaign and led TCU to the Elite 8 of the NCAA Tournament.

She also has a rapport with Reese already dating back to their college days. The two teamed up for the LSU Tigers during the 2023-24 season.

Despite being a late pick in the first round, Van Lith made the final roster for the Chicago Sky in her rookie season. It is unknown what kind of role she will play, but she should be available if called upon.

Her WNBA debut will be on Saturday, May 17, as the Sky travel to Indiana to take on the Fever. She has a storied rivalry with star guard Caitlin Clark that dates back to high school and college, and Van Lith sent a message before the matchup.

"twice as grateful," Van Lith wrote.

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Clark has already established herself as one of the best players in the WNBA, and Van Lith will look to do the same early in her career.

With the help of players like Reese and Cardoso, the pressure should be off of Van Lith as she navigates her first professional season. She'll also be able to lean on veteran players like Courtney Vandersloot and Rachel Banham to guide her.

Van Lith is one of the most exciting and popular rookies in the league, both on and off the court. Her WNBA debut will be highly anticipated, as will her entire rookie campaign.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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