NCAA Star Hailey Van Lith Makes Shocking Transfer Portal Decision

(Photo : Sarah Stier/Getty Images) ALBANY, NEW YORK - Hailey Van Lith (#11) of the LSU Tigers reacts after losing to the Iowa Hawkeyes 94-87 in the Elite 8 round of the NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament at MVP Arena on April 01, 2024 in Albany, New York.

Point guard Hailey Van Lith has decided to leave the LSU Tigers following a single season with the team.

The 22-year-old officially entered the NCAA transfer portal on April 4, shortly after LSU's defeat in the Elite 8 against the Iowa Hawkeyes, marking the end of their NCAA title defense.

During her time at LSU, Van Lith averaged 11.6 points, 2.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.3 steals per game while playing an average of 31.3 minutes per game.

This performance represents a notable decline from her previous season with the Louisville Cardinals in 2022-23, where she averaged 19.7 points in 36.9 minutes per game.

LSU head coach Kim Mulkey wanted the Washington native to stay at Baton Rouge for another campaign.

"I hope it's not her last game. But if it is, I'm proud to have been her coach for a year. She's got another year if she wants to come back. So does Angel [Reese]. I know they have to make decisions," the 61-year-old tactician said.

Hailey Van Lith's second time in the transfer portal

Van Lith is set to enter the NCAA transfer portal for the second time in her collegiate career.

Initially, she spent her first three seasons playing for the Louisville Cardinals, during which she notably guided the team to a Final Four appearance in her sophomore year.

However, last year, the 5-foot-7 playmaker surprised many by entering the transfer portal for the first time, garnering attention as one of the nation's top transfers.

Ultimately, she decided to join the then-reigning NCAA champions, LSU.