Hailey Van Lith’s Journey: From LSU to TCU—Can She Reclaim Her Stardom?

Hailey Van Lith, born on September 9, 2001, has become a household name in the world of NCAA basketball. Known for her exceptional skills on the court, she has played for the Louisville Cardinals and the LSU Tigers, and now she is set to join the TCU Horned Frogs for the 2024-25 season. This article explores her journey, the challenges she faced, and her aspirations as she aims to reclaim her stardom.

Who is Hailey Van Lith?

Hailey Van Lith is a prominent college basketball player who first gained attention during her high school career at Cashmere High School in Washington. There, she became the all-time leading scorer in state history and earned the prestigious title of a McDonald’s All-American. Her high school success laid the foundation for her future in college basketball, where she would continue to shine.

What Happened at Louisville?

Van Lith’s college career began at the University of Louisville, where she quickly made a name for herself. She earned first-team All-ACC honors twice and played a pivotal role in leading the Cardinals to the Final Four in 2022. During her junior season, she averaged an impressive 19.7 points per game, showcasing her scoring ability and playmaking skills. However, her journey took a turn when she decided to transfer to LSU in April 2023.

Why Did She Transfer to LSU?

The decision to transfer to LSU was influenced by several factors. Van Lith was drawn to the program’s strong support for women’s basketball and her relationship with head coach Kim Mulkey. However, the transition was not as smooth as she had hoped. She faced challenges adjusting to a new role, which resulted in a decline in her scoring average to 11.6 points per game. This adjustment period raised questions about her ability to maintain her previous level of performance.

How Did She Perform at LSU?

At LSU, Van Lith’s performance was a mixed bag. She averaged 11.6 points and 3.6 assists per game, but her shooting efficiency took a hit. Her field goal percentage dropped from .411 at Louisville to .388, indicating that she struggled to find her rhythm in a new environment. One of her standout moments came during the Elite Eight against Iowa, where she faced off against Caitlin Clark in a highly anticipated matchup. Despite the challenges, Van Lith’s determination and work ethic did not go unnoticed.

What About Her Olympic Experience?

In 2024, Van Lith represented Team USA in the 3×3 basketball event at the Paris Olympics. She played a crucial role in helping the team secure a bronze medal, leading the squad in scoring with an average of 5.2 points per game. This experience not only showcased her talent on an international stage but also provided her with valuable insights and confidence as she prepared for her next chapter in college basketball.

Why Did She Decide to Transfer Again?

After her season at LSU, Van Lith made the decision to enter the transfer portal once more. Instead of declaring for the WNBA draft, she opted to use her fifth year of eligibility. She cited a desire to return to her preferred position and regain her scoring form as key reasons for her transfer to TCU. This decision reflects her commitment to reclaiming her stardom and making a strong case for being a top pick in the upcoming WNBA draft.

What Led to Her Commitment to TCU?

Van Lith’s commitment to TCU came after careful consideration and visits to other programs, including Mississippi State. She expressed confidence in head coach Mark Campbell’s system, believing it would be a good fit for her skills. The opportunity to play in a familiar role and showcase her abilities in a supportive environment was a significant factor in her decision.

What Are Her Future Prospects?

As she joins the TCU women’s basketball team, Van Lith aims to reclaim her stardom and leverage both her collegiate experience and Olympic success. With the support of her new coaching staff and teammates, she is determined to make a significant impact on the court. LSU coach Kim Mulkey praised Van Lith as one of the hardest-working players she has coached, acknowledging that returning to a familiar role would benefit her game moving forward.

Conclusion

Hailey Van Lith’s journey through different programs has been marked by both challenges and successes, shaping her into a more resilient player ready to take on new challenges at TCU. As she embarks on this new chapter, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if she can reclaim her stardom and solidify her place as a top prospect in the WNBA draft. With her talent, determination, and the right support, the future looks bright for this rising star in NCAA basketball.