In what can only be described as a remarkable turnaround, Hailey Van Lith has been the driving force behind the TCU Horned Frogs’ stunning comeback season, propelling them to a Big 12 Championship. The star guard, known for her electrifying playmaking and scoring ability, has proven herself not only as one of the most talented players in college basketball but also as a leader capable of carrying a team to new heights.

Star guard Hailey Van Lith signs with TCU

A Season of Redemption

Coming off a few challenging seasons, TCU entered this year with something to prove. The team had its ups and downs, but with the arrival of Hailey Van Lith, everything changed. From the very first game of the season, it was clear that this was going to be a special year. Van Lith quickly established herself as the heartbeat of the team, guiding the Horned Frogs through tough competition and setting the tone with her relentless energy and commitment to excellence.

Her leadership was evident from the start, especially as she took over games in critical moments. Whether it was hitting clutch shots, setting up teammates, or locking down on defense, Van Lith did it all. She played with an edge that not only elevated her own game but also inspired her teammates to step up and rise to the occasion. TCU’s success in the Big 12 couldn’t have happened without her, and she made sure to leave an indelible mark on every game she played.

TCU Used Three Words To Describe Hailey Van Lith After Big 12 Title Win |  Yardbarker

The Big 12 Title: A Comeback for the Ages

The road to the Big 12 Championship was anything but easy, but Hailey Van Lith was ready for the challenge. Throughout the season, TCU faced stiff competition from some of the nation’s best teams, but Van Lith’s ability to perform under pressure was key to the Horned Frogs’ success.

In the final stretch of the season, with the Big 12 title on the line, Van Lith turned in several show-stopping performances. In a crucial game against a top-ranked rival, she scored a career-high 36 points, leading TCU to a dramatic comeback victory that put them in position to claim the title. But it wasn’t just her scoring—her leadership, poise, and clutch plays in the final moments of the game proved to be the difference-maker.

Angel Reese and Cameron Brink react to TCU star Hailey Van Lith's  motivational message

Highlights of Van Lith’s Big 12 Championship Run:

Game-Winning Shot: In one of the most memorable moments of the season, Van Lith hit a buzzer-beating three-pointer to secure a win over a top-ranked opponent, sending TCU to the finals.
Clutch Free Throws: With the game tied and seconds left on the clock in the championship game, Van Lith stepped up to the free-throw line and calmly sank two crucial free throws to seal the victory.
All-Around Performance: It wasn’t just scoring—Van Lith contributed across the board, racking up rebounds, assists, and steals, showcasing her well-rounded skill set and proving why she’s one of the most dynamic players in the nation.

 

TCU’s Rise: A Testament to Van Lith’s Leadership

What makes this championship even more special is the way it was achieved. TCU had been underperforming in previous seasons, but Van Lith’s arrival shifted the trajectory of the program. Under her leadership, the Horned Frogs became more than just a team—they became a family, united by a shared goal of excellence.

Hailey Van Lith To Reunite With Cameron Brink For Olympics Gold

Her influence went beyond the stat sheet. Van Lith’s vocal leadership, determination, and work ethic inspired TCU’s other players to elevate their games. Key players like Emily Fisher, Jasmine Williams, and Tara McDonald stepped up, all of them benefiting from the leadership that Van Lith provided both on and off the court.

The team’s offensive and defensive chemistry blossomed, with Van Lith orchestrating the offense and setting up her teammates for success. But her defensive efforts should not be overlooked—she was a constant presence on that end of the floor, often guarding the opposing team’s best player and shutting down key scoring threats.

Hailey Van Lith, slaughtered by critics at the Olympics: They should fire  the person who chose her | Marca

Looking Ahead: Van Lith’s Legacy

Hailey Van Lith’s contribution to TCU’s success this season is undeniable, and her legacy will be remembered as one of the key catalysts in the program’s rise to prominence. Her ability to turn a team around, lead by example, and perform in high-pressure situations has solidified her as one of the most exciting players to watch in college basketball.

As TCU heads into the NCAA tournament with a Big 12 Championship under their belt, all eyes will be on Van Lith to see if she can lead the Horned Frogs to even greater heights. There’s no doubt that with her leadership, skill, and determination, TCU has become a serious contender, and the journey is far from over.

 

Conclusion: A Season to Remember

Hailey Van Lith’s incredible comeback season has solidified her status as one of the top players in college basketball. Her leadership and clutch performances were the driving force behind TCU’s Big 12 Championship run, and her influence will be felt for years to come. As TCU looks ahead to the NCAA tournament, the sky’s the limit for this talented, determined, and relentless team.

Van Lith has already made history at TCU, and it’s clear that her journey is far from over. Fans can expect even more greatness from her in the future, but for now, she’s enjoying the well-deserved recognition for leading the Horned Frogs to their biggest achievement in years.