Hailey Van Lith has etched her name in NCAA history as the first male or female player to guide three different programs to the Elite Eight. She began at Louisville, earning two First-Team All-ACC selections and leading the Cardinals to a Final Four in 2022.
A transfer to LSU saw her adjust to point guard duties while helping the Tigers reach another Elite Eight. Now at TCU, Van Lith has propelled the Horned Frogs to their first Big 12 title and Elite Eight berth, highlighted by a Sweet 16 triumph over Notre Dame. Her adaptability and leadership remain unmatched.
Hailey Van Lith Shatters Records, Leads Third Program to Elite Eight
Van Lith, a graduate guard who spent three years at Louisville before a season at LSU, has propelled TCU into its first-ever Elite Eight appearance. Van Lith’s journey began at Louisville, where she tallied 1,553 career points and played in three consecutive Elite Eights, including a 2022 Final Four run.
She transferred to LSU for the 2023–24 season, helping the Tigers reach the Elite Eight. In her final collegiate season, she has taken TCU to unprecedented heights.
TCU head coach Mark Campbell marveled at Van Lith’s legacy.
“Five Elite Eights at three different schools is insane,” he said.
Her defining moment came in TCU’s 71-62 Sweet 16 victory over Notre Dame, where she delivered 26 points and nine rebounds. She broke TCU’s single-season scoring record with 663 points, while her 26 points marked the highest-scoring NCAA tournament game in program history. Van Lith also dominated the final quarter, outscoring the Irish 12-10.
With 3:29 left in the third quarter, Van Lith made a crucial defensive stop, blocking Notre Dame star Hannah Hidalgo’s layup attempt and securing the rebound. Before making the outlet pass, she locked eyes with Hidalgo—a moment that defined her competitive fire.
“I think Hailey’s a dog, overall,” said TCU senior Madison Conner. “Regardless of whether it’s on the offensive end or the defensive end, she will do anything it takes to win.”
Notre Dame head coach Niele Ivey saw Van Lith’s energy take over the game.
“You could tell her confidence was getting stronger, play by play,” Ivey said.
KEEP READING: Hailey Van Lith’s Dad and Jalen Suggs Celebrate Her 3-Pointer in Epic Fashion
The Big 12 Player of the Year, Van Lith is projected to be a first-round pick in the WNBA draft. Before then, she and the Horned Frogs will battle 1-seed Texas for a trip to the Final Four.
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