Hailey Van Lith, a former LSU women’s basketball player, wins Big 12 Player of the Year.

Hailey Van Lith: From LSU to Big 12 Player of the Year

Hailey Van Lith’s basketball journey has been one of perseverance, adaptability, and undeniable skill. The talented guard, who once donned the LSU jersey, made headlines by earning the Big 12 Player of the Year award after an incredible season with TCU. Her road to this achievement has been filled with significant milestones, including her time at Louisville, her transfer to LSU, and her eventual rise to prominence in the Big 12 conference. This article delves into her basketball evolution, her standout season, and what this award means for her career and women’s college basketball as a whole.

Early Years and Rise to Prominence

Hailey Van Lith’s basketball journey began in Wenatchee, Washington, where she quickly established herself as one of the top high school players in the country. She gained national recognition for her impressive scoring ability, court vision, and leadership on the floor. Her dominance in high school earned her a spot at Louisville, where she would continue to make waves.

At Louisville, Van Lith showcased her ability to perform under pressure. She played a crucial role in leading the Cardinals to deep NCAA tournament runs, including a Final Four appearance in 2022. Her relentless work ethic and sharp shooting made her one of the most promising guards in women’s college basketball. Her time at Louisville saw her earn multiple All-ACC honors and further cement her reputation as an elite competitor.

Transfer to LSU and Adapting to a New Role

After an impressive career at Louisville, Van Lith made the decision to transfer to LSU for the 2023–24 season. This move was significant, as LSU had just won the national championship under head coach Kim Mulkey. The addition of Van Lith was expected to further strengthen an already dominant team.

However, her time at LSU presented new challenges. Playing alongside star teammates such as Angel Reese, Van Lith had to adjust to a different system and playing style. While she still displayed flashes of brilliance, her individual numbers dipped slightly as she adapted to a more team-oriented role. Nevertheless, her competitive spirit and experience proved valuable for LSU’s continued success in the SEC.

A Fresh Start at TCU

Seeking a system that better suited her playing style, Van Lith made the decision to transfer once again, this time to TCU. This move proved to be a game-changer for both her and the Horned Frogs. At TCU, Van Lith was given the freedom to take on a leadership role and play her natural game.

Under head coach Mark Campbell, she flourished as the primary playmaker and scorer. Her ability to create shots, drive to the basket, and facilitate for her teammates made her the focal point of TCU’s offense. With Van Lith leading the charge, TCU had one of their most successful seasons in recent history, culminating in their first Big 12 regular-season title.

Dominating the Big 12

Van Lith’s stats spoke for themselves. She averaged 17.6 points, 5.4 assists, and 4.2 rebounds per game, showcasing her versatility and all-around game. Her performances against top Big 12 teams solidified her status as one of the best players in the conference.

Notable performances included a 30-point game against Texas, a near triple-double against Baylor, and clutch performances in key matchups that helped TCU secure wins. Her ability to step up in big moments made her a nightmare for opponents, and her leadership was instrumental in guiding a young TCU squad to success.

Her impressive season earned her not only the Big 12 Player of the Year award but also the Big 12 Newcomer of the Year honor—an achievement that underscores the impact she made in just one season with the Horned Frogs.

The Impact of Her Achievement

Winning Big 12 Player of the Year is not just a personal milestone for Van Lith; it also signifies her growth as a player and leader. Her journey from Louisville to LSU to TCU highlights the evolving landscape of college basketball, where players seek the best fit for their skills and aspirations.

Furthermore, her achievement serves as an inspiration for young athletes, proving that perseverance and adaptability are key to success. She has shown that even through setbacks and transitions, maintaining a strong work ethic and confidence can lead to greatness.

What’s Next for Hailey Van Lith?

With her college career reaching its peak, the next step for Van Lith could be the WNBA. Her skill set, combined with her competitive mindset, makes her an attractive prospect for professional teams. Her ability to score, facilitate, and defend at a high level suggests that she could make an immediate impact at the next level.

Whether she chooses to enter the WNBA Draft or explore other professional opportunities, one thing is certain—Hailey Van Lith’s basketball journey is far from over. She has already cemented her legacy as one of the top guards in college basketball, and the future looks incredibly bright for her.