Hailey Van Lith: Waived by the Sun, WNBA Future, Stats, Boyfriend, and Height Explained

The story of Hailey Van Lith has taken another dramatic turn in the WNBA. Just weeks after finding a new opportunity with the Connecticut Sun, the talented guard was waived by the franchise during the 2026 season.

For many basketball fans, the move came as a surprise. Van Lith had shown flashes of the elite scoring ability that made her one of the most recognizable stars in women’s college basketball. Yet roster pressure, team rebuilding, and the return of key players ultimately changed her situation.

From her standout NCAA career at Louisville, LSU, and TCU to her difficult transition into professional basketball, Van Lith’s journey has become one of the most discussed stories in the WNBA. Fans are now asking several major questions: Why did the Sun waive her? What are her current WNBA stats? Who is Hailey Van Lith dating? And what comes next for the former first-round pick?

Here’s everything to know about Hailey Van Lith’s latest WNBA chapter.

Why Did the Connecticut Sun Waive Hailey Van Lith?

The Connecticut Sun officially waived Hailey Van Lith in late May 2026 after activating French guard Leila Lacan from contract suspension.

The move was largely tied to roster flexibility and team balance rather than poor performance. In fact, Van Lith played well during her short stint with Connecticut. Reports noted that she averaged 8.1 points and 2.2 assists in just 17.6 minutes per game while shooting efficiently from the floor and beyond the arc.

The Sun entered the season in rebuilding mode and needed additional playmaking help after a poor start. Once Leila Lacan returned from France following a championship-winning campaign overseas, Connecticut decided to create roster space by releasing Van Lith.

The decision sparked major reactions across social media and among WNBA analysts. Many fans questioned why a young guard with upside and improved shooting numbers was released so quickly.

Despite being waived, Van Lith’s recent performances may have improved her standing around the league. Teams searching for backcourt depth could still see significant value in the former NCAA star.

Hailey Van Lith’s WNBA Journey So Far

Van Lith’s professional career has already included several twists.

She entered the WNBA after an impressive college career that included stops at:

• Louisville
• LSU
• TCU

She was selected 11th overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Chicago Sky.

Her rookie season with Chicago proved challenging. Playing behind established guards, Van Lith struggled to secure a consistent role and averaged modest numbers off the bench. Reports indicate she averaged 3.5 points per game during her first WNBA season.

Ahead of the 2026 campaign, the Sky waived her as part of roster restructuring after signing veteran guard Natasha Cloud.

Shortly afterward, Connecticut claimed Van Lith off waivers, giving her another chance to establish herself in the league.

For a brief period, it appeared to be the perfect fit.

The Sun’s rebuilding roster gave Van Lith more freedom offensively, and she responded with efficient scoring and improved confidence. However, the roster crunch caused by Leila Lacan’s return ultimately ended her time in Connecticut after only nine games.

Hailey Van Lith Stats in the WNBA

2026 Connecticut Sun Stats

During her short run with Connecticut, Van Lith posted:

• 8.1 points per game
• 2.2 assists per game
• 49.2% field-goal shooting
• 47.1% three-point shooting
• 17.6 minutes per game

Those numbers represented a major improvement from her rookie campaign in Chicago.

2025 Chicago Sky Stats

In her rookie season with the Sky, she averaged:

• 3.5 points per game
• 1.6 assists per game
• Limited bench minutes

Although the stats were underwhelming, many analysts believed the situation had more to do with fit and opportunity than talent.

Van Lith has always been considered a confident scorer who thrives when given freedom with the ball in her hands. Connecticut’s offensive system appeared to unlock some of that ability again.

Hailey Van Lith’s College Basketball Legacy

Before entering the WNBA, Van Lith built one of the most recognizable résumés in women’s college basketball.

Louisville Star

Van Lith first gained national attention at Louisville Cardinals women’s basketball, where she became one of the ACC’s top guards.

Her fearless scoring mentality and clutch performances helped Louisville reach deep NCAA Tournament runs, including a Final Four appearance.

LSU Transfer

She later transferred to LSU Tigers women’s basketball to join a superteam featuring Angel Reese. However, the fit was inconsistent, and her production dipped during the season.

TCU Revival

Van Lith rediscovered her form at TCU Horned Frogs women’s basketball during her final collegiate season.

At TCU, she averaged nearly 18 points per game and won Big 12 Player of the Year honors.

She also became the first player in NCAA history to reach the Elite Eight with three different programs, a remarkable accomplishment that highlighted both her talent and adaptability.

How Tall Is Hailey Van Lith?

One of the most searched questions online about Van Lith concerns her physical profile.

Hailey Van Lith is listed at:

• Height: 5-foot-9
• Weight: Approximately 157 pounds

At 5’9”, she has solid size for a WNBA guard. While not exceptionally tall by professional standards, her toughness, scoring ability, and basketball IQ have helped compensate against bigger defenders.

Who Is Hailey Van Lith’s Boyfriend?

Hailey Van Lith’s dating life frequently generates online attention due to her popularity on social media and her high-profile basketball career.

Over the years, she has been linked to several athletes and public figures through rumors and fan speculation. However, Van Lith generally keeps her personal relationships private.

As of now, there is no officially confirmed public relationship or boyfriend announcement from Van Lith herself.

Fans often speculate because of her social media presence and visibility during college basketball seasons, but she has largely focused public attention on basketball and training.

Why Fans Still Believe in Hailey Van Lith

Even after being waived twice within the same month, many basketball observers still believe Van Lith can succeed in the WNBA.

There are several reasons for that optimism.

1. Elite College Resume

Very few guards entering the league have matched her NCAA experience, scoring résumé, and tournament success.

2. Improved Shooting

Her shooting percentages with Connecticut were highly encouraging. Nearly 50% from the field and over 47% from three-point range showed meaningful growth.

3. Competitive Personality

Van Lith has always played with intensity and confidence. Coaches and teammates have often praised her work ethic and mentality.

4. Marketability

She remains one of the most recognizable young players in women’s basketball thanks to her college popularity, Olympic 3×3 experience, and social media following.

That visibility matters in today’s WNBA landscape.

What Happens Next for Hailey Van Lith?

The next few weeks could be critical for Van Lith’s career.

If she clears waivers, several possibilities exist:

Another WNBA Opportunity

Teams dealing with injuries or needing guard depth may take a chance on her.

Developmental Contract

Reports suggest Connecticut could potentially re-sign her under a developmental player structure if roster rules allow.

Overseas Basketball

Like many WNBA players, Van Lith could also consider overseas opportunities to continue developing her game and earning playing time.

Return Stronger in 2027

Even if she does not remain on a roster all season, she is still only 24 years old and has time to develop into a reliable WNBA contributor.

Hailey Van Lith and the Pressure of Expectations

Part of the reason Van Lith’s career receives so much attention is because expectations were incredibly high.

She entered college as a McDonald’s All-American and quickly became a national star. Her confident personality and scoring ability made her one of the faces of women’s college basketball.

However, transitioning from NCAA success to the WNBA can be difficult, especially for guards. The league’s physicality, speed, and limited roster spots create enormous pressure.

Many talented college players need several years before finding the right role professionally.

Van Lith’s story may ultimately become one about resilience rather than instant success.

Social Media Reactions to the Waiver

The reaction to Van Lith being waived by Connecticut was immediate.

Fans on social media described the move as “confusing” and “surprising,” especially given her efficient scoring numbers.

Some analysts also questioned whether the WNBA’s limited roster sizes make it difficult for young players to properly develop.

Others argued that Van Lith simply needs the right system and long-term opportunity to thrive.

Regardless of opinion, one thing is clear: people are still paying close attention to her career.

Can Hailey Van Lith Become a Long-Term WNBA Player?

The answer is still yes.

While early setbacks can hurt confidence, many WNBA guards have needed multiple seasons and teams before establishing themselves.

Van Lith has already shown:

• Scoring ability
• Improved shooting
• Toughness
• Playmaking flashes
• Big-game experience

If she continues improving defensively and finds a stable situation, she still has a realistic path toward becoming a rotational WNBA guard.

At only 24 years old, her basketball story is far from finished.

FAQs

Why did the Connecticut Sun waive Hailey Van Lith?

The Sun waived Van Lith to activate French guard Leila Lacan, who returned from overseas play. The move was primarily related to roster management.

What are Hailey Van Lith’s 2026 WNBA stats?

She averaged 8.1 points and 2.2 assists per game with Connecticut while shooting over 47% from three-point range.

How tall is Hailey Van Lith?

Hailey Van Lith is listed at 5-foot-9.

Which WNBA teams has Hailey Van Lith played for?

She has played for the Chicago Sky and the Connecticut Sun.

Who is Hailey Van Lith dating?

There is no publicly confirmed boyfriend or relationship at this time.

What college teams did Hailey Van Lith play for?

She played for Louisville, LSU, and TCU during her NCAA career.

Was Hailey Van Lith a first-round WNBA Draft pick?

Yes. She was selected 11th overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Chicago Sky.

Could Hailey Van Lith return to the WNBA soon?

Yes. Because of her age, talent, and recent strong performances, many believe she could receive another WNBA opportunity soon.

Final Thoughts

Hailey Van Lith’s WNBA journey has already featured major highs and frustrating setbacks. Being waived by the Connecticut Sun is undoubtedly disappointing, but it may not define her long-term career.

The former college superstar has already shown resilience throughout her basketball path. From Louisville to LSU to TCU and now the WNBA, she has consistently responded to adversity.

Her recent performances in Connecticut proved she still belongs in professional basketball conversations. Whether she finds another WNBA roster spot, signs overseas, or develops further before returning, Van Lith remains one of the most intriguing young guards in women’s basketball.

And given her talent and determination, this likely won’t be the last chapter of her story.