Hailey Van Lith addresses concerns surrounding LSU's personalities

Hailey Van Lith helped to form a super squad with her commitment to LSU out of the transfer portal. Her addition, along with the commitment of Aneesah Morrow, on top of the Tiger’s core in Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson led by Kim Mulkey is going to give the program a very good shot at a second straight national title.

Still, some see it as an opportunity for too many cooks in the kitchen. With all of the skill and personalities that come with these women comes with an opportunity for things to potentially combust.

However, that’s not how Van Lith sees it based on what she told Taylor Rooks in an interview last month. She said that they might make for good television but, in the end, they’re all locked in on winning which should negate any of the potential cons to having as many characters as they do.

“I think there’s a lot of personality. And a lot of people are worried about how it’s going to mix. But I think, at the end of the day, when you have the same goals? And that’s to be the best that we can be as a team? That’s not going to matter,” Van Lith said. “I think that I’m with a bunch of girls that have that same goal. And I don’t think we’re going to have issues on that front. We want to see the team do well. That’s the vibe I got from everybody. I loved it.”

“We could probably have a reality TV show next year. I’m not going to lie,” said Van Lith as she laughed. “It’s going to be all the vibes. But I think it’s just going to be so much fun to hoop with them. It’s going to feel like summer AAU. You’re just there to have fun and ball out. I feel like that’s what it’s going to be like and I just can’t wait.”

Van Lith has had no issue showing her true colors out on the court. Reese has been unashamedly herself as well, most notably during the Tiger’s run in the NCAA Tournament, while Johnson fits right in line with that with either a basketball or mic in her hand. Even Mulkey comes with her own flare with her wardrobe and reactions.

That’s why, even with plenty of concern around it, Van Lith thinks this opportunity is going to have her ready for the next level. With so much to balance as individuals and as a team, she thinks this will be ideal practice for the next phase in the life as a professional.

“I also see a little bit of, like, a glimpse of a mini pro team. Like, it’s kind of like we’ve got so much, we have so many WNBA prospects,” said Van Lith. “I really am excited because I think it’s going to give me a taste of what the league is like in playing on a team with such great players around me.”

“How can I fit? How can I help this team that is already so good? Like, what can I do to help them?,” Van Lith asked. “I think, like, I’m very confident in what I bring to the table. But, also, I think it’s going to make me so much better for the next stage of my life which is the WNBA.”