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2025 WNBA Draft: Hailey Van Lith gives hilarious reaction to viral angry face for Empire State Building visit

Brian Jones Profile Picby: Brian Jones04/14/25brianjones_93
Hailey Van Lith
Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Hailey Van Lith didn’t know what to think after watching her angry face during her Empire State Building visit ahead of the 2025 WNBA Draft. While appearing on ESPN, Van Lith was asked about her reaction during that moment.

“I don’t even remember doing that, so that’s a red flag,” Van Lith said. “I don’t know. I have know idea.” It’s possible Hailey Van Lith was just focused on the draft since she was projected to be picked farily high.

No matter where Van Lith plays, she’s going to bring a big fan base. The former TCU star has over 1.3 million followers on Instagram and is featured on the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue.

In an interview with SI, Van Lith talked about feeling the added pressure due to her social media presence. “Growing up in the frame of social media and the pressures that those bring, I 100% felt pressure,” Van Lith said. When I was 15, 16, and I first started blowing up, my thighs were too big, my hair was too short. I had too much acne. All the comments that just flood those pictures—it’s hard when you’re that young. You’re not mature enough to form your own perspective without the opinions of other people.”

More on Hailey Van Lith

Hailey Van Lith had a strong 2024-25 season for TCU. The 23-year-old averaged 17.9 points, 4.6 rebounds and 5.4 assists and helped the Horned Frogs reach the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament.

Ahead of the draft, Van Lith’s father, Corey, sent a message to his daughter. “Your mom and I keep thinking back to how you ended up here at the WNBA draft,” Corey said, via The Player’s Tribune (per Sports Illustrated). “You always dreamed so big, and was determined to make your dreams your reality. In hindsight, this was one of your biggest strengths. Your ability to focus and to believe in yourself even though the outside was telling you you had no chance.”

Corey added, “The best memories I have is the late workouts in the gym after a hard workout, busting into a dance together. Your mom and I want you to take a minute and reflect on where you have come from and what you have accomplished. It’s incredible. Then, after your name is called Monday night, continue to be the best version of yourself you can be. Be relentless, be undeniable. Let the WNBA and world know you are here. And here to stay. Congrats, I love you more than you’ll ever know.”