Chiney Ogwumike Dubs Paige Bueckers a 'WINNER' + Hailey Van Lith’s Impact for Chicago - News

Chiney Ogwumike Dubs Paige Bueckers a ‘WINNE...

Chiney Ogwumike Dubs Paige Bueckers a ‘WINNER’ + Hailey Van Lith’s Impact for Chicago

As the dust settles on the 2025 WNBA Draft, ESPN analyst and former All-Star Chiney Ogwumike has made her stance clear:

Paige Bueckers is already a WINNER — on and off the court.

WNBA Draft Style: Paige Bueckers and Hailey Van Lith Impress Fans #paige #hailey #wnbadraft

During ESPN’s post-draft coverage, Chiney didn’t hold back in her praise for the UConn legend, and she also gave high marks to Hailey Van Lith, who’s expected to make a huge splash with the Chicago Sky.

Let’s break down why Bueckers is already turning heads and how Van Lith could be the missing piece in Chicago’s rebuild.

Hailey Van Lith Turns Heads With Outfit Before WNBA Draft - Yahoo Sports

Paige Bueckers: A WINNER from Day One

Selected #3 overall by the Los Angeles Sparks, Paige Bueckers enters the WNBA with sky-high expectations — and according to Chiney, she’s the kind of player you build a franchise around.

“She has poise, leadership, court vision — and she makes her teammates better.
Paige is a WINNER. Full stop,” Ogwumike said during ESPN’s draft reaction.

Hailey Van Lith stuns on WNBA Draft orange carpet | Fox News

And she’s right. Bueckers’ college résumé speaks for itself:

2021 Naismith Player of the Year

Final Four appearances

Multiple 30+ point games in clutch tournament moments

Recovered from a torn ACL to lead UConn back into contention

 

Hailey Van Lith's 'Miserable' Behavior At WNBA Draft is Turning Heads - Athlon Sports

 

 

Beyond stats, Paige’s impact is felt in her ability to control pace, uplift a locker room, and deliver in big moments — something LA desperately needs as they try to return to WNBA relevance.

Hailey Van Lith’s New Era in Chicago

Meanwhile, the Chicago Sky pulled a bold move in the first round, selecting Hailey Van Lith — the fiery, competitive guard who transferred from Louisville to LSU for her final college season.

Hailey Van Lith stuns on WNBA draft red carpet, joins Chicago Sky

Some questioned the pick, but Chiney was quick to praise it:

“Hailey brings edge. She brings intensity. And she knows how to WIN.”

Chicago, a team still rebuilding after its 2021 championship run, desperately needed personality, perimeter shooting, and someone who’s not afraid of the spotlight. Van Lith brings all three.

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And don’t forget: she’s been playing under pressure her entire career — from high school mixtapes going viral to national championship games on ESPN.

“She’s battle-tested,” Chiney added.
“And pairing her with Marina Mabrey gives Chicago one of the most aggressive backcourts in the league.”

Hailey Van Lith Drafted No. 11 by Chicago Sky | Full Press Conference | 2025 WNBA Draft - YouTube

What It All Means for the League

Bueckers in LA = Instant marketability, playmaking, and high basketball IQ

Van Lith in Chicago = Grit, scoring, and energy for a team in transition

 

Both players are expected to start early, play big minutes, and shift their team cultures — and both have massive followings from their NCAA days that will boost WNBA viewership.

Caitlin Clark Just Did EXACTLY What Paige Bueckers PRAYED Wouldn't Happen! - YouTube

Final Take: Chiney Knows Hoops, and She Sees the Future Clearly

Paige Bueckers = poised to be a face of the league.
Hailey Van Lith = ready to shake up Chicago and silence doubters.

Whether you agree with the picks or not, one thing’s for sure:
The 2025 WNBA rookie class is bringing energy, swagger, and serious talent.

And according to Chiney Ogwumike?

These two aren’t just good…
They’re winners.

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