Hailey Van Lith's Rise to Stardom at LSU and Her Bright Future in the WNBA

The Emergence of Hailey Van Lith as an NCAA Superstar

In just a few short years, Hailey Van Lith has gone from a talented high school prospect to one of the biggest stars in women's college basketball. The guard for the LSU Tigers has taken the sport by storm with her tenacious play, clutch shooting, and winning mentality.

Van Lith hails from Wenatchee, Washington where she was a standout at Cashmere High School. She averaged an eye-popping 34.2 points per game as a senior while leading her team to a state championship. Van Lith's impressive prep career earned her a five-star ranking by ESPN and made her one of the most coveted recruits in the country.

Making an Immediate Impact at LSU

It did not take long for Van Lith to make her presence felt at the college level. As a freshman at LSU, she started in 28 of the 29 games in which she played. Van Lith averaged 12.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game while shooting 34.2% from three-point range.

She was named to the SEC All-Freshman Team and also earned a spot on the SEC All-Tournament Team after her clutch play helped LSU reach the tournament final. Van Lith's consistent production and fearless approach made her an ideal running mate for senior Khayla Pointer in the Tigers' backcourt.

Becoming a Sophomore Sensation

Van Lith's game went to another level as a sophomore as she emerged as one of the top players in women's college basketball. She led LSU by averaging 16.6 points per game while also contributing 4.2 rebounds and 2.7 assists per contest.

Known for her competitive drive and energetic style, Van Lith was the catalyst for an LSU team that went 26-6 and reached the Sweet 16 round of the NCAA Tournament. She topped 20 points in 13 games, including a 34-point outburst against No. 14 Iowa State. Van Lith earned All-SEC First Team honors for her breakthrough campaign.

Hitting Her Stride as a Junior

Entering her junior season, expectations were high for both Van Lith and an LSU team with Final Four aspirations. She did not disappoint, turning in her finest college season yet in 2022-23.

Van Lith averaged 21.2 points per game while shooting 44.7% from the field and 41% from long range. She continued to expand her game by getting to the free throw line more often and improving her distribution skills. Van Lith posted career-highs with 3.7 rebounds and 4.2 assists to go along with her elite scoring.

Her clutch play down the stretch helped LSU capture the SEC regular season and conference tournament titles. Van Lith was named SEC Player of the Year and received AP All-American Third Team honors. With Van Lith leading the way, the Tigers secured a No. 1 seed in the NCAA Tournament and have their sights set on a championship.

Projecting Hailey Van Lith's Future

As she completes her junior year, Hailey Van Lith finds herself poised to become a top selection in the 2023 WNBA Draft. Her combination of shot-making, intensity, and winning attributes make her a hot commodity.

Van Lith draws comparisons to players like Diana Taurasi and Jewell Lloyd for her fearless approach and ability to take over games. She is projected as a lottery pick, with some mock drafts slotting her in the top five.

Before moving on to the pros, Van Lith will have the chance to cement her legacy at LSU with a storybook ending. She will be one of the frontrunners for National Player of the Year if she can lead the Tigers to that elusive NCAA title.

At just 20 years old, Hailey Van Lith is quickly becoming the face of women's college hoops. Her rapid development into a bona fide superstar has made her must-see TV for basketball fans across the country. With her best basketball likely still ahead of her, the sky truly is the limit for this budding phenom.

FAQs

What are some of Hailey Van Lith's biggest accomplishments so far at LSU?

Some of Van Lith's top accomplishments at LSU include being named SEC Freshman of the Year in 2021, making the All-SEC First Team in 2022, winning SEC Player of the Year in 2023, and leading LSU to SEC regular season and tournament titles in 2023.

How did Van Lith perform as a freshman at LSU?

As a freshman in 2021, Van Lith started 28 games, averaging 12.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game. She made the SEC All-Freshman Team and the SEC All-Tournament Team.

What are some of Van Lith's strengths as a player?

Van Lith is known for her clutch shooting, high energy style, defensive intensity, ability to create her own shot, and leadership. She has improved as a distributor and rebounder each season.

What awards and honors did Van Lith earn in 2022-23?

In 2022-23, Van Lith was named SEC Player of the Year, AP All-American Third Team, and the Louisiana Player of the Year. She averaged 21.2 points per game.

What are analysts projecting for Van Lith's WNBA future?

Van Lith is projected to be a top 5 pick in the 2023 WNBA Draft. Analysts compare her to Diana Taurasi and Jewell Lloyd and praise her competitiveness and skillset.