As the 2025 WNBA Draft approaches, few names carry as much intrigue and emotion as Hailey Van Lith. The former Louisville and LSU standout — known for her fierce competitiveness, relentless work ethic, and on-court swagger — has opened up about her journey to this pivotal moment.

In a recent interview, Hailey took time to reflect on her basketball career, the challenges she’s faced, the growth she’s undergone, and what it means to now be on the verge of fulfilling a dream she’s had since childhood.

Humble Beginnings in Cashmere, Washington

Hailey’s story begins in the small town of Cashmere, WA, where she grew up playing basketball in local gyms and outdoor courts. Her father, Corey Van Lith, a former college athlete himself, was her first coach and mentor — someone who helped shape her mentality from day one.

“I learned early on that if I wanted to compete at the highest level, I had to be obsessed with the process — not just the result,” Hailey said.

In a town of just over 3,000 people, Van Lith became a high school sensation. She broke scoring records, led her team to deep playoff runs, and quickly rose to national attention as one of the top recruits in the country.

The Louisville Chapter: Where the Fire Burned Bright

Van Lith chose Louisville as her first collegiate stop, and it didn’t take long for her to leave her mark. From freshman year, she brought energy, clutch shooting, and undeniable leadership.

She helped lead the Cardinals to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Final Four run in 2022. Her grit and fiery on-court personality made her a fan favorite — and often, a target of opposing defenses.

“People underestimated me a lot,” she said. “They saw the ponytail and the trash talk and thought I was just hype. But I always backed it up with work.”

But after three seasons at Louisville, Hailey made a bold move.

A New Chapter at LSU: Growth Beyond the Game

Transferring to LSU under the spotlight of national attention was not an easy decision. Joining Angel Reese, Flau’jae Johnson, and coach Kim Mulkey, Hailey was stepping into a championship-caliber environment — but one full of personalities and expectations.

And while the year wasn’t without its challenges, Hailey says it was exactly what she needed.

“LSU taught me how to adapt, how to evolve as a teammate, and how to handle pressure on a whole different level,” she explained. “I grew as a player, but even more as a person.”

Despite injuries, media scrutiny, and the weight of big-game expectations, Van Lith found ways to contribute — on the court with her shot-making and off the court with her relentless drive and mental toughness.

Road to the WNBA: Prepared by the Journey

Now, with her college career behind her, Hailey Van Lith is preparing for the WNBA Draft — a moment she’s dreamed about for as long as she can remember.

She’s projected to go in the mid to late first round, with multiple teams reportedly interested in her ability to stretch the floor, defend, and bring leadership to the locker room. And while some may still question her size or fit at the next level, Hailey isn’t worried.

“I’ve never been the biggest or flashiest. But I’ve always been the one who outworks everyone else. That’s not changing now.”

Her workouts leading up to the draft have focused on strength, decision-making under pressure, and sharpening her shooting — especially from deep. Scouts say she brings a “combo guard mentality”, capable of running an offense or playing off-ball as a knockdown shooter.

Message to the Next Generation

As she reflected on her journey, Hailey had a powerful message for young girls chasing similar dreams:

“You don’t have to come from a big city to dream big. You just need a ball, a hoop, and a love for the game that no one can take from you.”

She continued:

“There will be haters. There will be doubters. But if you stay true to yourself and never stop grinding, you’ll get where you’re meant to be.”

What’s Next?

With the draft just around the corner, all eyes will be on where Hailey Van Lith lands. Will she join a contending team and become a key rotational player? Or will she step into a rebuilding franchise and lead from day one?

Whatever happens, one thing is clear: Hailey Van Lith is ready.

She’s taken every lesson from small-town roots to high-pressure college hoops and turned them into fuel. She’s been underestimated before — and every time, she’s risen higher.

Final Thought

Hailey Van Lith’s journey to the WNBA is more than just about stats or highlight reels. It’s a story of resilience, reinvention, and relentless self-belief. And now, as she stands on the edge of her next chapter, she’s carrying with her a legacy built not just on talent — but on heart.

Whether you love her fiery style or root against her, one thing is undeniable:

Hailey Van Lith is built for this moment.