Hailey Van Lith, the TCU basketball phenom and 2025 Big 12 Player of the Year, has added another impressive achievement to her resume with the April 2025 Sports Illustrated Swimsuit digital cover. In the striking image, Van Lith shows off her strength and confidence while holding a basketball with the Big 12 “XII” logo.
From Court Dominance to Cover Star
The digital edition revealed on April 8, 2025, features the standout guard in a stylish black one-piece swimsuit with the bold headline “HAILEY VAN LITH IS UNBREAKABLE.”
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The cover arrives just days after her historic collegiate career concluded in the NCAA Tournament Elite Eight, where she became the first player in NCAA history to reach the Elite Eight with three different programs.
Van Lith’s journey to Sports Illustrated stardom follows an exceptional season at TCU, where she led the Horned Frogs to their best season in program history with 34 wins. Setting single-season records with 680 points and 204 assists, she averaged an impressive 17.9 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game.
The shoot, which took place in Fort Worth, Texas, represents more than just modeling success; rather, it symbolizes Van Lith’s remarkable transformation of TCU’s program, which took them to their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2010.
Her influence extends well beyond statistics, as she’s helped put TCU women’s basketball back on the national map.
The $1.1 Million NIL Powerhouse
With an On3 NIL valuation of $1.1 million, Van Lith ranks among the most marketable college athletes in the country. Her social media presence, including over one million Instagram followers, has made her an attractive partner for brands looking to connect with the next generation of sports fans.
The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit feature further elevates her personal brand as she transitions from collegiate star to WNBA prospect. During the photoshoot, Van Lith expressed feeling “sexy, cute and athletic,” advocating for female athletes to embrace their power and beauty simultaneously.
KEEP READING: Top 10 Women’s College Basketball Players in 2025
Van Lith’s influence transcends basketball, as she’s been refreshingly open about her mental health struggles during her time at TCU. She has shared her experiences with depression and anxiety, crediting coach Mark Campbell with providing crucial support during difficult times.
As she gets ready for the 2025 WNBA Draft, where she’s expected to be a top 10 selection. Van Lith’s Sports Illustrated cover represents the culmination of an extraordinary collegiate career. Her ability to excel both on the court and in the media spotlight demonstrates why she’s become one of the most recognized faces in women’s basketball, unbreakable indeed.
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