Home / Sports / Rookie Hailey Van Lith Battles Steep Learning Curve in Debut WNBA Season
Rookie Hailey Van Lith Battles Steep Learning Curve in Debut WNBA Season
2 Aug
Summary
- Hailey Van Lith, Chicago Sky's first-round pick, struggling to find role
- Team has 2-8 record in July, with Van Lith missing games due to ankle injury
- Van Lith adjusting to coming off the bench, a new experience for her
In the midst of a challenging July, the Chicago Sky have seen their record drop to 2-8 on the month. A key factor in their struggles has been the adjustment period for rookie Hailey Van Lith, the team's first-round pick out of TCU.
Van Lith, who has been sidelined with an ankle injury, has found it difficult to carve out a consistent role with the Sky so far. Averaging just 4.2 points, 1.2 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, the young guard is still learning the ropes of the WNBA.
One of the biggest adjustments for Van Lith has been coming off the bench, something she has never experienced in her basketball career. "Like you can't get too ahead of yourself," Van Lith said. "Anytime I do, I learn my lesson real fast. So, taking it one day at a time, but also I've never come off the bench in my career."
In addition to the unfamiliar role, Van Lith has also had to adapt to the high volume of losses the Sky have endured. "I think the losing part is definitely shocking," she admitted. "100% shocking, but you know every vet that I have has told me, like you know your rookie year always is a big hit, but then you kind of learn that's just how the game is at this level."
Despite the challenges, the Sky remain optimistic about Van Lith's future. Head coach Tyler Marsh stated that the rookie is "progressing" in her recovery and will see more playing time as the season continues.
