WNBA Roster Cuts Get Brutal: Van Lith, Mair, Suárez All Waived

Final roster day is Thursday and the cuts are landing fast. The Chicago Sky waived guard Hailey Van Lith — the No. 11 overall pick last year — citing the team's "style of play preference." It's a stunning early exit for one of the most-discussed names of the 2025 draft.

The Seattle Storm released first-round pick Taina Mair, and the Golden State Valkyries cut second-round pick Marta Suárez (No. 16 overall). Suárez had only been in Bay Area three weeks — Golden State acquired her in the trade that sent the No. 8 pick Flau'jae Johnson to Seattle, a move Valkyries GM Ohemaa Nyanin said was made for cap room.

The injury list is also stacking up. Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu (Grade 3 ankle sprain) will miss the first two weeks. Kate Martin's Grade 2 quad strain has the Valkyries' opener in doubt. Storm center Ezi Magbegor will miss the start of the season with a right foot injury suffered playing for Australia. Indiana's Lexie Hull is fighting a hamstring issue but says she's hopeful for the opener. The W tips off Friday — many teams won't be at full strength.