Importance Score: 62 / 100 🔴
Sky Draft Hailey Van Lith, Reunited With Angel Reese in Chicago
The Chicago Sky made a significant move in the WNBA Draft, selecting guard Hailey Van Lith as the No. 11 pick, reuniting her with former LSU teammate Angel Reese. This highly anticipated reunion brings together two prominent figures in women’s basketball, promising an exciting dynamic for the Sky in the upcoming WNBA season. Both Reese and Van Lith are also recognized for their ventures beyond the court, notably as Sports Illustrated Swimsuit models.
Reese and Van Lith: College Teammates Rejoin Forces
Reese and Van Lith previously shared the court at LSU, where they advanced to the Elite Eight in the NCAA Tournament. Despite an Elite Eight finish with the Lady Tigers, Van Lith experienced individual shooting struggles, recording a career-low field goal percentage of 37.8%. Nonetheless, Reese expressed enthusiasm about their renewed partnership in Chicago.
“We didn’t accomplish our goal the first time. Let’s try again,” Reese shared on social media platform X, reacting to the Sky’s official welcome post for Van Lith.
Van Lith’s Journey to the WNBA Draft
Following the 2023-24 college basketball season, Van Lith transferred from LSU and utilized her final year of eligibility at TCU. At TCU, she demonstrated significant improvement, averaging 17.9 points, 5.4 assists, and 4.6 rebounds per game, showcasing her versatility and impact on the court.
Enthusiastic Reactions and Shared History
Reese further amplified the excitement by reposting an image of herself and Van Lith from their time at LSU. Chelsea Gray of the Las Vegas Aces acknowledged Van Lith’s potential, stating the significance of the 11th pick, a position Gray herself once held.
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Reese responded to Gray’s affirmation with gratitude and confidence in Van Lith’s abilities. Van Lith echoed the positive sentiment, expressing her anticipation to play alongside Reese once more and mentioning their ongoing communication since Reese joined the WNBA.
Beyond Basketball: SI Swimsuit and Shared Mindset
Van Lith highlighted the common ground she shares with Reese, noting similarities in their approach and competitive spirit. “We have many parallels in our demeanor and attitude,” Van Lith stated. “She’s a fierce competitor who elevates the intensity of everyone around her.”
Adding to their shared experiences, both Van Lith and Reese have been featured in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit. Reese debuted in the magazine in 2023, subsequent to LSU’s national championship victory. Van Lith recently graced the digital cover of SI Swimsuit in anticipation of the WNBA Draft.
Looking Ahead: Sky’s Season Opener
Van Lith’s accomplishments at TCU, including being named Big 12 Player of the Year and leading TCU to their first tournament appearance since 2010, solidified her position as a first-round WNBA draft pick for the Sky.
The Chicago Sky are set to commence their season on May 17 against Caitlin Clark and the Indiana Fever, a highly anticipated matchup to begin the season.