Hailey Van Lith’s journey to the WNBA Draft wasn’t just a showcase of her basketball talent—it was a gritty fight through personal darkness. After a challenging stint at LSU left her questioning her future and battling mental health struggles, Van Lith staged a remarkable comeback.
Her transfer to TCU, paired with a fierce determination to reclaim her spark, propelled her to new heights and landed her in the WNBA spotlight. How did she transform her lowest lows into a shining draft-day triumph?
A Rollercoaster College Career
Van Lith burst onto the scene at Louisville, dazzling fans with her scoring prowess. As a junior, she averaged 19.7 points per game and powered the Cardinals to a Final Four run, cementing her status as a rising star. But her 2023-24 transfer to LSU threw her into uncharted waters.
In a new system, her performance dipped to 11.6 points per game, and she faced relentless criticism—especially after a high-profile defensive struggle against Caitlin Clark in the NCAA Tournament. Off the court, the pressure became unbearable. Van Lith later admitted she grappled with suicidal thoughts, saying, “I didn’t even want to live” during that tumultuous time.
Her bold move to TCU for her fifth year changed everything. Under coach Mark Campbell, she found her groove, posting 17.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game while shooting an impressive 45.2% from the field. Her stats weren’t just numbers—they were proof of a resurgence. She led TCU to a Big 12 championship and an Elite Eight appearance, milestones that underscored her growth. “She’s a warrior,” Campbell praised. “Her ability to rise above adversity is what makes her special.”
Winning the Mental Game
Beyond the hardwood, Van Lith’s biggest battle was internal. After LSU, she leaned into mental health support, confronting her struggles head-on. “I praise [God] for the nights where I didn’t want to be alive anymore,” she revealed in a raw postgame interview after TCU’s NCAA Tournament run.
Her vulnerability struck a chord, offering a rare glimpse into the unseen pressures elite athletes face. This wasn’t just about rediscovering her jump shot—it was about rebuilding her spirit.
That mental reset paid dividends at TCU. Scouts took notice of her sharper decision-making and cool-headedness under pressure, traits that boosted her draft stock. Her journey became a powerful narrative: a player who didn’t just survive her darkest moments but used them as fuel to shine brighter.
Draft Day Glory and Beyond
On draft night, the Chicago Sky selected Van Lith 11th overall, a testament to her resilience. Joining a league increasingly attuned to mental health, she found a fitting home. “It feels good to join a league that is not only concerned about our play but also for our mental health,” she said, beaming alongside former LSU teammate Angel Reese.
While analysts suggest she’ll need time to adapt to the pros, her potential is undeniable.
Hailey Van Lith’s story is more than a sports tale—it’s a beacon for anyone facing their own shadows. From the brink of despair to the WNBA stage, she’s proven that the toughest victories start within. As she begins her professional chapter, her journey promises to inspire—and her game is just getting started.
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