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The Connecticut Sun announced a significant roster change on Thursday by activating standout guard Leila Lacan while waiving former first-round draft pick Hailey Van Lith.
Lacan is expected to make her season debut on Saturday when the Sun host the Los Angeles Sparks in Hartford, Connecticut. Her return gives the Sun a major boost as they continue searching for consistency early in the season.
The French guard arrived after a successful campaign in the 2026 La Boulangère Wonderligue, where she helped Basket Landes capture the league title. Lacan was also named Finals MVP following her standout performances throughout the championship series.
Her international achievements continue to add to an already impressive résumé. Lacan previously earned an Olympic silver medal representing France and was also selected to the Associated Press All-Rookie Team during her first season with Connecticut.
The Sun selected Lacan with the 10th overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, and she quickly made an impact during her rookie season. Although she appeared in only 25 of the team's 44 games last year after joining midway through the campaign, her influence on the court was significant.
In 2025, Lacan averaged 10.4 points, 3.7 assists, 2.4 rebounds and 2.2 steals per game. Connecticut performed notably better when she was available, winning nine games with her in the lineup compared to just two victories without her.
Meanwhile, Van Lith's departure marks another transition in her young professional career. The former college star played for University of Louisville, Louisiana State University and Texas Christian University before entering the WNBA.
Van Lith was originally selected 11th overall in the 2024 draft by the Chicago Sky. During her rookie season, she averaged 3.5 points in 12.4 minutes per game while appearing in 29 contests. Her season was interrupted by an ankle injury that limited her availability.
Connecticut later signed Van Lith after she was waived by Chicago shortly before the current season began. During her brief time with the Sun, she averaged 8.1 points and 2.2 assists per game while making three starts for a team that has struggled to a 1-8 record.
According to ESPN sources, Van Lith appreciated the organization's honesty and remains motivated moving forward.
