Chicago Sky Preseason Recap: Hailey Van Lith Shines in Loss to Phoenix Mercury
The Chicago Sky began their preseason with a game against the Phoenix Mercury at Stanford Pentagon in South Dakota. Despite a 108-104 loss, Rickea Jakson impressed in her debut with 15 points, three rebounds, and two assists. Jackson was acquired from the Los Angeles Sparks in an offseason trade that sent Ariel Atkins to L.A.
Other newcomers like Skylar Diggins and Jacy Sheldon started quietly for the Sky. Rookie Gabriela Jaquez contributed 12 points off the bench. However, it was Hailey Van Lith who shined the brightest, scoring 20 points on a perfect 8-of-8 shooting in just 17 minutes. Van Lith was named Player of the Game for her standout performance.
Van Lith, who missed the end of the 2025 season due to an ankle injury, showed no signs of rust in her return. After a modest rookie season, she is eager to make a bigger impact in her second year. The Sky's social media praised Van Lith's perfect game and highlighted her potential for the upcoming season.
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