Courtney Vandersloot is a name that will be etched into the history books as one of the greatest playmaking point guards that has ever graced a WNBA court. Much to the delight of the Chicago fanbase, the 36-year-old star is returning for her second stint at the site where she holds the franchise record in assists (2387), steals (457), and games played (358).
Not only is this a relief for newly appointed head coach Tyler Marsh, who is looking to awaken a sleeping giant in the Sky, but one rookie can thrive under the mentorship of the veteran. Hailey Van Lith is already exhibiting traits that showcase the positive benefits that working with a legendary figure can have on a motivated rookie.
Van Lith thriving under Vandersloot's tutelage
Chicago's No.11 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA draft made no secret that Vandersloot is a player who can have a monumental effect on the future of her career.
When in conversation with WGN-TV reporter Kaitlin Sharkey, Van Lith confirmed that the former New York Liberty star was a player she was keeping close tabs on during practice. "She probably thought I was stalking her. I literally was like staring at her all practice. Like, 'what are you doing right now? What read are you making?'"
The TCU graduate has proven that she has an excellent capacity to retain new information, as she has displayed an elite level of playmaking and has quickly acclimatised herself to her teammates' way of playing - chalking up 5 assists in each of her preseason appearances. Van Lith's ability to drive into the paint with intent and then spot a teammate sitting on the perimeter who is waiting to fire off a 3-point attempt emulates her two-time WNBA First-Team mentor.
It may be her assist numbers that are showing how the Sky's young point guard is already flourishing under the tutelage of the Chicago legend, but Van Lith's footwork and skill on the dribble is something that should not be undervalued. When facing the Minnesota Lynx, the star stunned the crowd with a delightful in-and-out dribble, which left her defender in her wake as she sank a clutch 3-point attempt to take the lead.
The rookie is not just emulating playmaking prowess
In addition to showcasing limitless potential in orchestrating an offense, the 23-year-old rookie has followed in Vandersloot's footsteps as a disruptive defensive presence, who has tallied up 2.5 steals per game. During both of her preseason matchups, Van Lith has frustrated her opponents by relentlessly hunting them down, whether they are carrying the ball up the court or trying to manufacture separation to create a shooting opportunity.
The box score does not support the claim that Van Lith has been a menace in the defensive phases of the games. Currently averaging just 0.5 steals over two matchups, it appears that the '2025 Big 12 Player of the Year' needs to improve her hustle stats if she is going to impose herself as one of the top guards in the WNBA.
However, this is a prime example of when the box score does not tell the whole story. The 'Windy City's' freshest talent absorbed a vital charge in the matchup against Minnesota with three minutes left on the clock to alleviate the pressure that was mounting on her colleagues.
With Chicago's training camp only commencing on April 27, the chemistry and trust that has developed between the veteran and rookie is evident for all to see. Vandersloot must continue to share knowledge and experience with the exciting Van Lith if she is going to develop into an elite player in the WNBA.