A New Home for Hailey Van Lith
Following a rocky season in Baton Rouge at LSU, one of the biggest stars in women’s college basketball, Van Lith is headed to TCU for a fresh start and to amplify the Horned Frogs’ backcourt.
LSU Powerhouse
Van Lith was one of the nation’s most impressive scorers in her junior season at Louisville, averaging 19.7 points per game. She teamed up with Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson at LSU in 2023, aiming to help the Tigers win a second consecutive national championship. But Van Lith didn’t enjoy the same success in a less prominent role for the Tigers.
From the transfer portal to TCU
TCU went 21-12 this past season despite injuries forcing the Horned Frogs to forfeit two games and hold open tryouts just to fill out the roster. Expectations will be high in 2024-25, as Van Lith joins a talented core team.
Kim Mulkey Thoughts
LSU coach Kim Mulkey opened up about Van Lith’s inconsistent season and her decision to leave the program, telling fans and boosters at the team’s end-of-season banquet that the senior is “one of the hardest working players” she’s ever coached.
“Her aspirations were to get drafted this year, and she realized, ‘I need another year, and I need to go back to a place where I can relax and get back to my normal position,'” Mulkey said. “And what do you do? You hug her, and you wish her well.”
Hailey Van Lith: Playing Style
Van Lith is known for her aggressive and competitive playing style. She’s a versatile guard, capable of scoring from various spots on the court, facilitating plays, and playing tough defense.
International Experience
Van Lith has also represented the United States in international competitions, contributing to team success in various tournaments.
She has played for the USA Basketball Women’s U19 World Cup Team and other national teams, showcasing her talent on a global stage.
Personal Brand and Influence
Beyond her on-court achievements, Van Lith has built a strong personal brand, with a significant following on social media. She is known for her work ethic, dedication to the game, and inspirational presence both on and off the court.
The Future
It’s going to be an exciting season for TCU and Van Lith. For TCU, this addition will boost their visibility and reputation in women’s college basketball and potentially attract more top-tier recruits to their program. For Hailey, she can take on a larger scoring role than she did at LSU while still applying what she picked up with the Tigers about how to be a more well-rounded player.
