In the dynamic world of women’s basketball, few names resonate with as much energy and recognition as Hailey Van Lith. Born on September 9, 2001, the now 23-year-old has carved a remarkable path through the collegiate ranks and now embarks on her professional journey in the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). While her age provides a simple numerical marker of her life, it hardly encapsulates the multifaceted career, the significant impact, and the evolving narrative of this talented athlete.
This article delves into the various aspects that define Hailey Van Lith, going beyond the basic question of “Hailey Van Lith age.” We will explore her early life, her stellar high school career, her impactful journey through three different college programs, her burgeoning presence in the WNBA, her significant influence in the realm of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, her powerful social media presence, and the overall public perception that surrounds this captivating young star.
Early Life and High School Dominance
Hailey Ann Van Lith’s basketball journey began in Wenatchee, Washington. Growing up, she was immersed in a competitive environment, fueled in part by her older brother, Tanner Van Lith, who also played basketball at Big Bend Community College. Her parents, Corey and Jessica Van Lith, both American nationals, played pivotal roles in nurturing her athletic aspirations. Corey, a former baseball and basketball player at the University of Puget Sound, took on the role of Hailey’s primary trainer from a young age. He instilled in her a rigorous work ethic and mental toughness, even drawing inspiration and training tips from the late NBA legend Kobe Bryant, with whom he fostered a mentorship. Jessica, who runs a custom home-building business with Corey, provided the crucial emotional support and balance needed for a young athlete navigating the pressures of competitive sports.
Van Lith’s talent quickly became evident during her time at Cashmere High School. She established herself as a dominant force, ultimately becoming the all-time leading scorer in Washington’s WIAA (Washington Interscholastic Activities Association) history. Her exceptional scoring ability, coupled with her playmaking skills, garnered national attention, making her one of the top high school prospects in the country. This early success also led to opportunities with USA Basketball, further honing her skills on an international stage.
Collegiate Career: A Journey of Impact and Growth
Van Lith’s collegiate career was marked by significant contributions to three different programs, each experience shaping her into the player she is today.
University of Louisville (2020-2023)
She began her NCAA journey at the University of Louisville. From her freshman year, Van Lith showcased her scoring prowess and competitive spirit, even reaching the Final Four in her debut season. Over three seasons with the Cardinals, she consistently ranked among the team’s leaders in points, minutes played, and steals. By the time she entered the transfer portal as a graduate transfer, she had etched her name in Louisville’s history as the 12th-leading scorer in the program. Her time at Louisville also saw her develop into a dynamic guard capable of impacting the game in multiple ways.
Louisiana State University (2023-2024)
In a highly publicized move, Van Lith transferred to Louisiana State University (LSU) to play under coach Kim Mulkey. Joining a team fresh off a national championship, she played a crucial role in helping the Tigers achieve a 31-6 record and reach the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament. While her statistical output might have slightly shifted within a star-studded lineup that included players like Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson, her competitive fire and ability to perform under pressure remained evident. Notably, during her time at LSU, she demonstrated strong leadership and support for her teammates, publicly denouncing racist harassment directed towards her Black teammates.
Texas Christian University (2024-2025)
For her final year of college eligibility, Van Lith made another strategic transfer to Texas Christian University (TCU). This move proved to be transformative, as coach Mark Campbell provided her with the platform to showcase her full offensive capabilities. At TCU, Van Lith thrived as a primary ball-handler and playmaker. She led the Horned Frogs to a historic season, culminating in their first-ever Elite Eight appearance in the NCAA Tournament. Her individual accolades at TCU were significant, as she earned both the Big 12 Player of the Year and Newcomer of the Year awards, becoming the first player in league history to achieve this double honor in the same season. Her statistics soared, averaging 17.9 points and 5.5 assists per game, leading TCU to a school-record 34 wins. This season solidified her reputation as a versatile and impactful guard capable of leading a team to success.
Across her entire college career, Van Lith scored an impressive 2,599 points and achieved the unique distinction of being the first college basketball player, male or female, to reach the Elite Eight five times with three different programs. She also became the first player to take three different programs to an NCAA regional final, highlighting her adaptability and impact on winning.
Transition to the WNBA: Joining the Chicago Sky
Following a stellar final collegiate season, Hailey Van Lith declared for the 2025 WNBA Draft. Her journey culminated in being selected 11th overall by the Chicago Sky in the first round. This marked the beginning of her professional career in one of the most competitive women’s basketball leagues in the world. In Chicago, she will be reunited with her former LSU teammate, Angel Reese, creating an intriguing dynamic and a familiar connection within the Sky’s roster. Playing alongside established talent and under WNBA coaching, Van Lith faces the exciting challenge of translating her collegiate success to the professional level. Her versatility as a scorer and playmaker, honed through her diverse college experiences, will be valuable assets as she navigates the demands of the WNBA.
NIL Deals and Social Media Presence: A Modern Athlete
Beyond her on-court achievements, Hailey Van Lith has also become a prominent figure in the realm of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. As a business major, she was quick to capitalize on the changing landscape of college athletics, becoming one of the most marketable student-athletes in the country. Her endorsements span a variety of brands, including Adidas, Sports Illustrated Swimsuit, JLab, LaCroix, and Apple Cash, showcasing her broad appeal and marketability. Her selection as a Sports Illustrated Swimsuit cover model in April 2025 further amplified her visibility and demonstrated her crossover appeal beyond the basketball court.
Van Lith also boasts a significant social media presence, with over 1.3 million followers on Instagram alone. She strategically uses her platform to connect with fans, share insights into her career, and promote her partnerships. While acknowledging the pressures that come with a large social media following from a young age, she has actively worked on fostering a healthy relationship with these platforms, relying on a strong support team and a sports psychologist to navigate the external pressures. Her willingness to be authentic and share her journey, both on and off the court, has resonated with a wide audience.
Public Perception: More Than Just a Player
The public perception of Hailey Van Lith is complex and evolving. Initially viewed as a highly touted scorer with a strong competitive drive, her narrative has deepened over time. Her transfer decisions sparked various opinions, but her consistent success and leadership at each stop have largely validated her choices. Her openness about her mental health struggles, including past suicidal ideations and the importance of seeking help, has added a layer of vulnerability and relatability to her public persona. This transparency has been met with widespread support and has positioned her as an advocate for mental well-being among athletes.
Van Lith’s willingness to stand up for her teammates against racism further solidified her image as a strong and principled leader. Her quote, “Loyalty begins with honoring yourself before you can truly honor other people,” reflects a growing self-awareness and maturity in her public interactions. While she acknowledges that public perception is often out of her control, she has become more comfortable sharing her authentic self, moving beyond just her on-court achievements.
FAQs
How old is Hailey Van Lith?
As of May 2025, Hailey Van Lith is 23 years old. She was born on September 9, 2001.
When is Hailey Van Lith’s birthday?
Her birthday is on September 9th.
Where is Hailey Van Lith from?
She hails from Wenatchee, Washington, USA.
What is Hailey Van Lith’s height and weight?
Hailey stands at 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) tall and weighs 155 pounds (70 kg).
Which colleges did Hailey Van Lith attend?
She played college basketball at the University of Louisville (2020–2023), Louisiana State University (2023–2024), and Texas Christian University (2024–2025).
What are some of Hailey Van Lith’s college basketball achievements?
Two-time First-team All-ACC (2022, 2023)
Big 12 Player of the Year (2025)
Big 12 Newcomer of the Year (2025)
First-team All-Big 12 (2025)
Big 12 Tournament Most Outstanding Player (2025)
WBCA Coaches’ All-American (2025)
Third-team All-American – AP, USBWA (2025)
ACC All-Freshman Team (2021)
McDonald’s All-American (2020)
Washington Ms. Basketball (2020)
FIBA 3×3 Under-18 World Cup MVP (2019)
Has Hailey Van Lith represented the USA in international competitions?
Yes, she has won two gold medals with the United States at the youth international level. In 3×3 basketball, she played for the senior national team and won a gold medal at the 2023 FIBA 3×3 World Cup and a bronze medal at the 2024 Summer Olympics.
Who are Hailey Van Lith’s parents and family?
Her parents are Jessica and Corey Van Lith. Her father played basketball and baseball at the University of Puget Sound. She has one brother, Tanner, who played baseball for Big Bend Community College.
What is Hailey Van Lith’s relationship status?
Hailey Van Lith is in a relationship with NBA player Jalen Suggs of the Orlando Magic. They have been dating since around 2021.
What are some notable aspects of Hailey Van Lith’s personal life?
She is a Christian and was baptized in 2023, describing it as the “best day of my life.” She has also been open about her mental health journey, discussing her struggles with body image and suicidal thoughts, and emphasizing the importance of mental health awareness.
To conclude
Hailey Van Lith’s journey from a small town in Washington to the professional basketball courts of the WNBA is a testament to her dedication, talent, and resilience. Born on September 9, 2001, in Wenatchee, Washington, she has, at just 23 years old, achieved milestones that many athletes aspire to. Her collegiate career is marked by significant achievements, including multiple All-American honors and leading her teams to notable tournament successes. Her versatility and leadership on the court have been evident throughout her time at Louisville, LSU, and TCU.
Beyond her athletic prowess, Hailey’s commitment to representing her country has seen her secure medals in international competitions, further highlighting her as a standout player on the global stage. Her personal life, marked by strong family ties and a relationship with NBA player Jalen Suggs, showcases a grounded individual who values connection and support. Moreover, her openness about her faith and mental health challenges provides inspiration to many, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-awareness.
As she embarks on her professional career with the Chicago Sky, fans and aspiring athletes alike will undoubtedly watch with anticipation and admiration. Hailey Van Lith’s story is not just one of athletic achievement but also of personal growth, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence both on and off the court.
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