“The real GOAT”: Hailey Van Lith shows “love” to TCU “Underfrog” Ella Hamlin receiving full scholarship
TCU Horned Frogs guard Hailey Van Lith shined a spotlight on teammate Ella Hamlin, calling her “The Real GOAT” on Instagram on Wednesday after an inspiring moment shared by the team. The IG story featured a clip of Hamlin in the locker room receiving news that she would be awarded a full athletic scholarship.
Hamlin joined TCU in January 2024 after a series of injuries decimated the team, leading Mark Campbell to open tryouts to the student body. The video, which has been widely circulated on social media, captured Hamlin’s emotional reaction as her teammates erupted in cheers.
The heartfelt celebration showcased the unity and love within the TCU program. It also highlighted Hamlin’s dedication and hard work, making her transition from walk-on to scholarship athlete a reward for perseverance.
“THE REAL GOAT ELLA 🐐 WE LOVE YOU 💜 @_ellahamlin,” Van Lith wrote.
Hailey Van Lith equals career high as TCU secured ninth straight win
Senior guard Hailey Van Lith played a pivotal role as the No. 10-ranked TCU Horned Frogs (18-1, 6-0 Big 12) extended its winning streak to nine games with a 90-81 victory over the UCF Knights on Tuesday. She recorded 20 points and equaled a career-high with six 3-pointers in a single game. Van Lith also contributed seven assists, four rebounds and three steals.
Center Sedona Prince delivered a standout performance as well, scoring 27 points alongside seven rebounds, four assists and two blocks, showcasing the team’s depth and versatility.
Van Lith, a five-star recruit out of high school, began her career at Louisville, where she spent three seasons. Seeking a fresh start, Van Lith transferred to LSU ahead of the 2023-24 season to join the reigning national champions.
Struggling to find her rhythm, Van Lith endured one of the toughest seasons of her career, prompting her to enter the transfer portal once more. She ultimately landed at TCU, where she has experienced a resurgence.
“Obviously, everybody knows my story,” Van Lith said. “And it’s been far from what I thought it would be, but at the same time, that was a very personal moment for me. It’s a story about perseverance and self-belief, and I couldn’t have done it without the people around me.”
Van Lith credited the Horned Frogs' supportive environment for helping her rediscover her groove. She has averaged 18.3 points, 4.5 rebounds and 6.2 assists while shooting 46.0% this season.