Hailey Van Lith emerged as one of the best players in women's college basketball during her time at Louisville. She transferred to LSU for the 2023-24 season, a move that did not go according to plan. Van Lith did not play up to her standards in what was a down season. It appears that Van Lith, who transferred to TCU ahead of the 2024-25 season, is back to playing at a high level.
On Sunday, Van Lith led TCU women's basketball to an 86-46 victory over Idaho State. She accomplished an impressive feat in the win, scoring a season-high 27 points. The TCU guard also recorded five rebounds, four assists, two steals and one block. Additionally, Van Lith shot 10-16 from the field and 4-9 from beyond the arc.
Hailey Van Lith is back
Van Lith participated in the women's 3X3 tournament in the Olympics during the summer. She played well and displayed signs of a potential bounce back during the 2024-25 season. Sure enough, Van Lith is playing at a high level to begin the new campaign.
TCU is now 6-0 overall. It is still early in the season, but it appears that Van Lith's decision to transfer once again is paying off.
Overall, Van Lith is averaging 17.6 points per game with TCU so far. She is also averaging 7.6 assists, 5.8 rebounds, 2.4 steals and 1.0 blocks per outing. Van Lith is also limiting her mistakes, as she is turning the ball over two times per game.
Van Lith's struggles with LSU were surprising. The team, which was led by Angel Reese, featured plenty of potential. Van Lith never completely found her footing at LSU, though. She averaged 11.6 points, 3.6 assists and 2.4 rebounds per outing. Her underperformance led some to wonder if she was already declining.
Van Lith has silenced her doubters so far in 2024-25. Of course, there is plenty of season left and anything can happen. If Hailey Van Lith continues to play at such a high level, however, she will certainly catch the attention of teams around the WNBA.
Van Lith and TCU women's basketball will battle a quality Notre Dame team on Friday. Both teams are undefeated so far. Notre Dame defeated USC 74-61 on Saturday in what was a statement win.
Friday's game should be competitive and exciting as Hailey Van Lith looks to lead her team to another victory.