Brittney Griner welcomes Hailey Van Lith after surprising Sky departure
Griner welcomed her new teammate right away.
Brittney Griner welcomes Hailey Van Lith after surprising Sky departure originally appeared on The Sporting News . Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here . Hailey Van Lith’s time with the Chicago Sky ended far sooner than many expected, but the former first-round pick is already getting a fresh opportunity elsewhere in the WNBA.
Just days after being waived by Chicago before the regular season, Van Lith was claimed by the Connecticut Sun , giving the former college star another chance to establish herself at the professional level. The move quickly became one of the more talked-about roster developments around the league, especially considering Van Lith had already participated in the Sky’s preseason games and media obligations. Chicago’s decision reportedly came down to a “style-of-play preference,” according to ESPN, as first-year head coach Tyler Marsh continues reshaping the franchise’s roster and identity heading into the 2026 season.
While the split raised eyebrows around the WNBA, Connecticut’s response showed there was still strong interest in Van Lith around the league. The Sun moved quickly to bring her aboard, and one of the team’s biggest stars wasted no time welcoming her to the organization. Brittney Griner sends a message to Hailey Van Lith Shortly after the Sun claimed Van Lith off waivers, veteran center Brittney Griner posted a public message showing excitement about the addition.
“HVL 💪🏾🔥. CT young and turnt for real 🤣 I love it 🔥,” Griner wrote on Threads. Van Lith also appeared energized by the move.