Chicago Sky’s Unfortunate Hailey Van Lith Announcement Sparks Strong Reactions

The Chicago Sky haven’t started the season as they hoped, dropping their first two games against the Indiana Fever and New York Liberty by a combined 60 points.  As they prepare for Sunday evening’s matchup against the Los Angeles Sparks, the Sky revealed some unfortunate news about rookie and fan favorite Hailey Van Lith.

Before the game, Sky head coach Tyler Marsh shared the injury report, confirming that Van Lith will be sidelined with an ankle injury that’s been troubling her since the season’s start.  She’ll be joined on the sidelines by Moriah Jefferson, who is also out with an injury.  The announcement sparked a strong reaction from Sky and WNBA fans, many of whom were eager to see Van Lith back on the court.

Today’s Game Status Report. @UChicagoMed | #skytown pic.twitter.com/nkJjksdZZ1

— Chicago Sky (@chicagosky) May 25, 2025

“HVL out night ruined idk what to do now,” a fan said.

“Nooooo,” someone else added.

Another fan posted, “HVL out? Let’s see how this goes.”

One more fan commented, “Doesn’t really matter.”

On a positive note, Van Lith’s injury doesn’t appear to be serious. She was seen working out on the court ahead of the game, suggesting she may return soon.  Her role has been limited through the first two games of the season, coming off the bench for the Sky. In Thursday’s matchup against the Liberty, she played 15 minutes, posting four points and six assists.  In her WNBA debut—a 35-point loss to the Indiana Fever—Van Lith logged just four minutes but made the most of them, going 2-for-2 from the field for four points.