Hailey Van Lith Reflects on the Trade of Angel Reese: A Season of Growth and Change

The Heart of the Game: Hailey Van Lith on Team Dynamics

As a sports reporter, I've seen the highs and lows that athletes face, but the recent trade of Angel Reese from the Chicago Sky offers a poignant reminder of the personal stories intertwined with the game. Hailey Van Lith, who played with Reese both at LSU and in the WNBA, shared her insights on what this trade means for their relationship and for their respective careers.

A Sisterhood in the Spotlight

Hailey Van Lith and Angel Reese have shared more than just a court; they've shared experiences that shaped their careers. Van Lith was drafted 11th overall in the 2025 WNBA Draft, with Reese, already an established star, acting as her guiding light. “Angel took me under her wing, understanding the pressures that come with being a rookie,” Van Lith noted. “It's a relationship built on mutual respect.”

“We have a really mature relationship, a mutual-respect relationship, where we both have respect for each other's game and also the character and the person we are off the court.” – Hailey Van Lith

It's a testament to the character of both athletes that even amidst personal endeavors, such as Reese's trade to the Atlanta Dream, their bond remains intact.

The Business of Sports

The numbers didn't lie; the Sky's season was disappointing, ending with a woeful 10-34 record. With such performance pressures, tough decisions in the front office had to be made. For Van Lith, the trade didn't come as a complete shock. “You see how quickly things can change in this business,” she said after the trade news broke. “But it's the nature of the industry we're in.”

A New Beginning for Angel Reese

Reese, who was drafted seventh overall in 2024 and has consistently made her mark by leading the WNBA in rebounds, now faces a new chapter with the Atlanta Dream. During her introductory press conference, Reese admitted to feeling emotional about the move, stating, “Joining the Dream lowkey makes me emotional because I haven't had this before, and I'm really grateful.”

Looking Ahead

As Van Lith prepares for the upcoming season, she holds no resentment toward Reese. “I hope the best for her, and she deserves a place that she wants to be,” she said, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship that often gets overshadowed by competition. She added that she is looking forward to facing her former teammate in future matchups.

This trade not only reshapes the rosters but also offers a glimpse into how players approach their careers, choices, and aspirations within this competitive arena.

The Road to Recovery

The Sky will begin their season against the new expansion team, the Portland Fire, on May 9, marking a pivotal time for Van Lith as she steps into a more significant role on the team. Meanwhile, Reese will find herself in a challenging yet exciting new environment in Atlanta, where she aims to harness her potential fully.

Final Thoughts

The trade of Angel Reese serves as a notable chapter in both players' careers. While they may now be on different teams, the lessons learned from their time as teammates will resonate throughout their journeys. This isn't just about strategy, stats, or records—it's about friendship, growth, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.