WNBA star and SI swimsuit model Hailey Van Lith CUT by Chicago Sky just a year after being drafted No 11 overall

Hailey Van Lith has been cut by the Chicago Sky just one year after being drafted by the team with the No 11 overall pick.

The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model, 24, endured an underwhelming rookie season in 2025 largely due to injuries and a lack of minutes on the court.

And despite playing her in both of their WNBA preseason games, the Sky has waived Van Lith on the eve of the 2026 campaign.

Chicago announced on Monday afternoon that she has been released, coming as a major blow for the ex-LSU guard a few days out from the new season. 

Van Lith made 29 appearances off the bench last season, averaging 12.4 minutes per game and 3.5 points, 1.1 rebounds and 1.6 assists while shooting 33.9 percent from the floor. 

The 5ft 9in rookie only shot 16.1 percent from 3-point range, nevertheless, while struggling to create the same openings she enjoyed in college. 

Over the course of her collegiate career, Van Lith spent three seasons with Louisville before moving to LSU in 2023.

After one season alongside future Sky teammate Angel Reese in Baton Rouge, she joined TSU in 2024 before being drafted a year later.