In a raw and heartfelt moment after helping lead TCU to a historic Big 12 Championship and a Sweet 16 appearance, women’s basketball star Hailey Van Lith opened up about her past struggles with mental health—and how prayer played a life-changing role in her journey.

The 22-year-old guard, who has spent her college career in the national spotlight at powerhouse programs like Louisville, LSU, and now TCU, revealed that behind the accolades and success, she once felt completely broken.

“The way that I got exposed to the media and social media at such a young age, I really struggled with mental health things,” Van Lith shared candidly, according to Sports Illustrated. “When I was younger and in college, I was suicidal, I was heavily medicated, and I felt trapped.”

Despite her on-court triumphs—including a Final Four run and multiple Elite Eight appearances—Van Lith says her internal battles were hidden from the world. “You would never know because I was having a ton of success on the court, but internally, and in life in general, I was ready to be done.”

Her words offer a powerful reminder that even the brightest stars can face deep darkness. But what makes Van Lith’s story so moving is not just the pain she endured but also the hope that followed.

“I’ve been praying all year like, ‘God, I know you’ve given me this testimony to share it with the world and shed your light,'” she said. “And I think this is the year, and this is the moment that He wants people to know my story and how He has taken me literally from the depths of wanting to die to this moment of loving life.”

With a renewed sense of purpose and a heart rooted in faith, Van Lith says she has found healing beyond the game. “Even if basketball went away today, I truly would want to be here and love these people,” she added.

In TCU’s 85-70 victory that sent the Horned Frogs to their first-ever Sweet 16, Van Lith contributed 16 points and 10 rebounds—yet it’s her testimony off the court that may have the most lasting impact.

As the sports world celebrates her athletic achievements, the Christian community can celebrate something even greater: a young woman who found hope in Christ during her darkest hours and is now using her platform to glorify Him.

Hailey Van Lith’s story is a powerful testimony that no matter how far one feels from peace or purpose, God is still near—and prayer can be the bridge from despair to joy.

“The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” — Psalm 34:18

In a world where athletes often feel pressured to appear perfect, Van Lith’s vulnerability is refreshing—and her faith is inspiring.