“I learn so much watching her be in that mode” — Jalen Suggs reveals how Hailey Van Lith's competitive nature inspires him

Jalen Suggs opened up to Taylor Rooks about how his partner Hailey Van Lith fuels his competitive drive. Suggs respects Van Lith for his dogged determination in each game they play, from bowling to card games to board games, and for his tenacity on the court.

Jalen Suggs shares his admiration for Hailey Van Lith’s impact both on and off the court Orlando Magic ’s Jalen Suggs is famous for his competitive nature. In Hailey Van Lith, he has found a partner who not only keeps up with his intensity but also challenges him. Suggs mentioned that Van Lith's ambition isn't just limited to the basketball court; it affects all their shared experiences.

Beyond the playful banter, Suggs expressed deep respect for Van Lith's approach to challenges. He shared that observing her in action has been a learning experience for him, stating, "Oh, she talks trash to me, we go play bowling, we playing car games or board games, puzzles, whatever she's talking smack to me. So I feel bad for the girls that actually got to play against it. But no, watching her in her competitive state is, I think, one of my favorite things to do. I tell her all the time I learn so much watching her be in that mode and how she approaches everything. It helps me grow as a person and as a player. So yeah, being able to be close to her along her journey, especially as she gets competitive and gets out done, the court been special."

"Bowling, card games, board games, puzzles, whatever. She's talking smack to me" 😂

Jalen Suggs on his partner Hailey Van Lith's competitive nature. He sat with @TaylorRooks to express how proud he is of Van Lith, who was selected 11th overall to the @chicagosky 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/5zXyy8nQ8g

— NBA TV (@NBATV) April 15, 2025

Van Lith's fierce competitiveness is clear from her impressive athletic record. During her college years at TCU, she steered the team to its first Big 12 Conference titles in both the regular season and the tournament. Her remarkable achievements earned her the Big 12 Player of the Year and Newcomer of the Year awards, making her the first player in the conference to achieve both in the same season. These honors showcase her dedication to excellence and her ability to uplift those around her.

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Jalen Suggs cares for Hailey Van Lith, not just as friends, but it reveals how her competitive spirit got embedded in his life and career. With the Chicago Sky now where she’s started her professional career, you can tell that Van Lith’s imprint is made far and wide, as people can see her dedication and love of the game.