Importance Score: 20 / 100 🔵
Angel Reese Commends Former LSU Teammate Hailey Van Lith After Elite Eight Qualification
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – College basketball standout Hailey Van Lith garnered accolades from her former LSU teammate Angel Reese on Saturday, following a pivotal performance in the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. Van Lith played a key role in propelling TCU to their first-ever Elite Eight appearance with a 71-62 victory over Notre Dame, contributing a game-high 26 points.
Reese’s Public Support on Social Media
Following TCU’s triumph, Reese took to social media platform X to express her support, posting “HVL,” Van Lith’s initials. She also shared a highlight reel showcasing Van Lith’s impressive plays from Saturday’s contest, further amplifying her commendation.
Reunion in the Elite Eight
Reese and Van Lith previously played together at LSU last season, where they advanced to the Elite Eight in the 2024 NCAA Tournament before their journey concluded with a loss to Iowa. Their shared history adds another layer of interest to Reese’s public show of support for her former teammate.
Van Lith’s Fifth Elite Eight Appearance
This Elite Eight qualification marks Van Lith’s fifth appearance in the prestigious round across three different universities, showcasing her consistent success and high-level performance throughout her college career.
A Collegiate Journey Across Prominent Programs
Van Lith began her college basketball journey with three seasons at Louisville before transferring to LSU for her senior year. This season, she opted to utilize her graduate eligibility to play for the TCU Horned Frogs, further demonstrating her ambition and dedication to the sport.
Record-Breaking Performance for TCU
During Saturday’s victory, Van Lith achieved a significant milestone, establishing a new TCU single-season scoring record. Her scoring output in the game elevated her season total to 663 points, solidifying her impact on the Horned Frogs’ offense.
Key Game Statistics
In addition to her scoring prowess, Van Lith also contributed nine rebounds and four assists during her 39 minutes on the court, highlighting her all-around game and value to the team.
Van Lith’s Post-Game Reflections
“Entering this game, my mindset was focused on playing without regrets,” Van Lith stated in a post-game interview. “I aimed to release any pressure to win, and instead, embrace the joy of playing basketball with the talent bestowed upon me.”
Dominating Fourth-Quarter Performance
Van Lith’s influence was particularly evident in the fourth quarter, where she outscored the entire Notre Dame team 12-10. This dominant performance in the final quarter was instrumental in securing the victory and propelling TCU into the Elite Eight.
Teammate’s Admiration for Van Lith’s Tenacity
TCU senior Madison Conner lauded Van Lith’s competitive spirit, telling ESPN, “I think Hailey’s a competitor, through and through. Whether it’s offense or defense, she’s committed to doing whatever it takes to secure a win. She possesses that essential competitive drive.”