Chicago, IL – April 28, 2025
The rivalry that captivated college basketball fans has just been reignited — and this time, it’s on the biggest stage yet.
Hailey Van Lith, the fiery guard known for her fearless game and relentless spirit, has declared she is on a personal mission for redemption after her 2024 NCAA heartbreak at the hands of none other than Caitlin Clark.
After being drafted by the Chicago Sky earlier this month, Van Lith wasted no time setting the tone for her professional career. In her very first media appearance as a WNBA player, she made her intentions crystal clear:
“I haven’t forgotten who sent me home.
I haven’t forgotten the feeling.
And I’m coming for everything they said I couldn’t have,” Van Lith said, her voice sharp with emotion.
“Caitlin’s journey might have been the headline last year — but this year, it’s my story that everyone will be talking about.“
The NCAA Heartbreak That Lit the Fire
The 2024 NCAA Women’s Tournament was one of the most fiercely competitive seasons in recent memory. And no game drew more attention than the heated matchup between Van Lith’s team and Caitlin Clark’s squad — a clash of two dynamic, unstoppable forces.
Ultimately, it was Clark’s record-breaking performance that carried her team to victory, sending Van Lith and her dreams crashing down in a wave of tears, missed opportunities, and “what-ifs.”
That defeat didn’t just end Van Lith’s college career — it reshaped her entire mindset.
“I respect greatness, but that doesn’t mean I’m not coming to dethrone it,” Van Lith added with a steely gaze.
“I’m not here to play it safe. I’m here to make noise, to win rings, and to build a legacy bigger than anyone thought possible.“
A New Beginning in Chicago
The Chicago Sky, still searching for their next superstar to anchor a new era, saw in Van Lith not just talent, but a fighter — someone who plays with heart, grit, and unshakable confidence.
Since arriving in Chicago, Van Lith has been laser-focused, putting in relentless hours at practice, working with trainers to sharpen her shooting, elevate her defense, and transform herself into a two-way force on the professional stage.
Team officials have praised her already.
“Hailey brings an intensity we haven’t seen in years,” said Sky head coach Teresa Weatherspoon.
“She’s not just playing games out there — she’s making statements.“
And make no mistake: Van Lith’s statement is personal.
A Rivalry Renewed
With Caitlin Clark now dazzling for the Indiana Fever, a WNBA showdown between Clark and Van Lith is inevitable — and fans are already circling their calendars.
Every matchup between Chicago and Indiana will be must-see basketball.
Two former college foes, both determined to carve their names into WNBA history, both fueled by a shared past — but walking very different paths forward.
“I’m not out for a handshake,” Van Lith said when asked about facing Clark again.
“I’m out to take back what was mine — and I’m willing to go through anyone to get it.“
The Road Ahead
As the 2025 WNBA season looms closer, Hailey Van Lith is not shying away from expectations — she’s embracing them, feeding off them, and turning the pressure into power.
She’s not content with being another name in the league.
She’s not satisfied with participation trophies or moral victories.
She wants it all — championships, respect, and the sweet taste of redemption.
And if her words are any indication, Hailey Van Lith is ready to set the WNBA ablaze.
Get ready.
The fire has been lit.
The revenge tour has begun.