Hailey Van Lith Officially Invited to 2025 WNBA Draft Following Historic College Career
Hailey Van Lith, one of college basketball’s most recognizable names, has officially been invited to attend the 2025 WNBA Draft in New York City. The talented guard has had a unique and impactful college career, making history by reaching the Elite Eight with three different programs.
Van Lith began her collegiate journey at Louisville, where she quickly established herself as a star. Over three seasons (2020–2023), she became the face of the program, earning First Team All-ACC honors and leading the Cardinals to the 2022 Final Four. Her leadership, scoring ability, and fierce competitiveness earned her widespread recognition and admiration. By the end of her junior year, she had amassed over 1,500 career points and was regarded as one of the top guards in the nation.
After her time at Louisville, she transferred to LSU for the 2023–24 season to join the defending national champions. Though her statistics dipped slightly in a new system, she remained a key contributor. Wanting a fresh start, Van Lith transferred once more—this time to TCU—where she delivered a standout final season.
With the Horned Frogs, Van Lith averaged 17.9 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, helping lead TCU to its first-ever Elite Eight appearance. Her all-around improvement significantly raised her WNBA draft stock.
Ahead of the draft, the WNBA confirmed Van Lith’s invitation via social media and celebrated her one-of-a-kind achievement: becoming the first NCAA player to reach the Elite Eight with three different programs—Louisville, LSU, and TCU. She was also named to the AP All-America Third Team and was a semifinalist for the Naismith Player of the Year award.
While mock drafts place her anywhere from the late first round to early second, one thing is clear—Hailey Van Lith’s collegiate legacy has already left a lasting mark. Other players invited to attend the 2025 draft include Paige Bueckers (UConn), Aneesah Morrow (LSU), and Kiki Iriafen (USC), with Bueckers expected to go first overall to the Dallas Wings.
About the Author
