While things sailed pretty smoothly for Team USA’s 5×5 squad, the 3×3 defending champs had a rather disappointing outing. While many were about to think that their 17-13 defeat would put former LSU point guard Hailey Van Lith in the firing lines again, the mood on social media turned out to be sympathetic towards her. And she would be glad to witness such encouraging trends now that she has come out with a major revelation.

The on-court struggle for Hailey Van Lith was clearly on the hardwood for the naked eye. But, that wasn’t because the 22-year-old was witnessing some lapses in her game. Apparently, the 2019 FIBA 3×3 Under-18 World Cup MVP was dealing with some sort of illness before the contest. And, to make matters worse the the heat at the Place de la Concorde further exacerbated her condition.

Providing further insights about it, Van Lith said, “I think I actually have a cold. I think it was from the rain in the opening ceremony. So, I think it’s a combination of that.”

Anyhow, she was confident that it was nothing serious and that she had dealt with something like that in her college basketball career as well. She told the Associated Press, “I’ll be fine. I played through it in the NCAA tournament, so there’s nothing that’s going to take me out.”

On a much brighter note, Van Lith, who often is “a scapegoat” behind the team’s losses, extended some positivity from the fans this time around. This wasn’t the case when the 3×3 squad squared off against the Under-23 national team at the All-Star event. Despite the win, Hailey Van Lith faced criticism for being vulnerable in defense.

Now, she’ll have to put all that behind her considering what challenge lies in front of the team next.

What’s next for Hailey Van Lith and Co.?

While the reigning champions may have faced some rough storms in their opening game, Hailey Van Lith and the team would surely pick up their pace by their next matchup. They will be facing Azerbaijan who will also be entering La Concorde after a loss at the hands of Spain.

Rhyne Howard and Dearica Hamby will meet their WNBA peer and Las Vegas Aces’ latest addition Tiffany Hayes on July 31. Azerbaijan will also star Alexandra Mollenhauer, Dina Ulyanova, and Marcedes Walker.

Van Lith will be looking forward to her leading the team to a positive result next after leading the team with 6 points against Germany. Moreover, she will also have a chance to prove why she deserves her shot in the squad, being the only current college player. Only time will tell what the future holds for this talented baller.

Stay tuned for more such updates. And, join us for the exciting pilot episode of the “Dual Threat Show”. Our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and SEC All-Freshman Team Selection, Silas Demary Jr.