Hailey Van Lith:
Photo Courtesy of gocards.com
Number: 10
Height: 5’7
Class: Freshman
Position: Guard
Hometown: Wenatchee, Wa
Rankings:
- 5* Guard
- 7th overall player (ESPNW Hoopgurlz)
- 2nd overall player (Prospects Nation)
Accolades:
- 2020 Gatorade and MaxPreps Player Of The Year
- 2020 McDonald’s All-American
- WIAA All-State Class 1A first team (2017, 2018, 2019)
As a senior at Cashmere High School, Hailey averaged 33.8ppg, 9.5rpg, 5spg, and 4.7apg while leading her team to a 24-1 record. HVL has one of the most impressive mixtapes that I’ve seen in years.
Coach Walz: “Hailey brings with her a unique skill-set with a mamba mentality. There is no stage too big, nor a shot too difficult to pull off.”
Breakdown: Hailey Van Lith averaged over 9 rebounds as 5’7 guard in high school, she is not afraid to mix it up in the painted area. Van Lith is a straight up scorer, probably the best scorer in the 2020 class. She can score and score efficiently from all three areas on the court. She is a confident player, but not cocky. Hailey regularly makes tough jump shots and contested layups. The smooth and agile lefty has an incredibly tight handle on the basketball. She is able to maneuver through traffic and manipulate defenders with her ability to handle the ball. For all the flash and highlights that Van Lith brings, most people overlook her ability to lead a team. Her teammates gravitate towards her, not only because of her skill, but because of her ability lead and lead effectively.
My Take: Originally I thought HVL would play a similar role as did current senior Dana Evans did: coming off the bench her freshman year. A combination of Hailey’s talents, and Coach Walz wanting a four guard lineup, opened the door for more playing time and a few possible starts for Hailey. The ACC has it’s share of talented freshmen, but Hailey should be in the running for freshman of the year and on the All-ACC Freshman Team. Hailey is a special talent and like Coach Walz said, “Hailey brings with her a unique skill-set with a Mamba mentality.” I could definitely see Hailey having a couple plays drawn up for her to either put the game away or win a game or two. Folks, she’s that good.
