Van Lith didn’t fit that mold at LSU. The rookie acknowledged that reality on Friday before she returned to the Pete Maravich Assembly Center and notched seven points, five assists, three rebounds and two steals in 13 minutes of run in the Chicago Sky’s 89-62 preseason win over the Brazilian National Team.

The Chicago Sky lacked one very important thing in 2024 — playmakers. Now with Hailey Van Lith — as well as the return of Sky legend Courtney Vandersloot — it appears that one of the team's biggest weakness might not be quite as much of a weakness now.

Angel Reese and Hailey Van Lith returned home in front of an enthusiastic crowd for the Chicago Sky’s preseason opener against the Brazilian National team. It was a joyous celebration for the two former LSU stars and featured Coach Kim Mulkey presenting them each with flowers at center court.