The LSU Tigers delivered a commanding performance in the second round of Women’s March Madness, cruising past Florida State, 101-71, to secure a spot in the Sweet 16 for the third consecutive season. From start to finish, LSU displayed an all-around dominant effort, with multiple players contributing significantly on both ends of the court. Mikaylah Williams led the charge with 28 points, while Annesah Morrow showcased her versatility with 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists.
Sa’Myah Smith added a double-double with 20 points, 12 rebounds, and 6 assists, and Flau’Jae Johnson contributed 13 points to round out the Tigers’ offensive explosion. While Florida State’s Ta’Niya Latson, the nation’s leading scorer, put up an impressive 23 points in the first half, LSU’s defense made key adjustments, limiting her to just 7 points in the second half. The Tigers’ defensive effort played a crucial role in securing the decisive victory.
Up next, LSU will face NC State in the Spokane 1 Regional this weekend. The Tigers previously defeated the Wolfpack 82-65 in November at the Baha Mar Pink Flamingo Championship, adding intrigue to the upcoming matchup. LSU’s offensive firepower has been on full display in the first two rounds of the NCAA Tournament, with the Tigers surpassing 100 points in both games. Head coach Kim Mulkey emphasized the importance of teamwork and cohesion as the tournament progresses.
“Winning and having everybody score the ball and contribute is just a lot more fun, and it takes you a long way,” Mulkey said in a postgame interview. “I say this in the playoffs: Everybody has got to be on the same page. And I feel like in two games, we’ve proven we’re on the same page.”
Photo Cred: USA Today
Notable Tournament Highlights
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Florida State’s Early Success: Before facing LSU, Florida State secured a dominant 94-59 victory over George Mason in the first round, marking the Seminoles’ first NCAA Tournament win since 2019. Latson led all scorers with 28 points, shooting 50% from the field, along with five rebounds and two assists.
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George Mason’s Historic Run: Despite falling to Florida State, George Mason made history by earning its first NCAA Tournament appearance. Led by standout sophomore Zahirah Walton, the Patriots captured their first Atlantic 10 Championship and set a program record with 27 wins this season.
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LSU’s First-Round Dominance: The Tigers opened their tournament run with a resounding 103-48 victory over San Diego State. The Aztecs, known for their strong bench play, managed just 18 bench points against LSU’s stifling defense.
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SDSU’s Tournament Journey: San Diego State’s return to the NCAA Tournament came 13 years after their last appearance—ironically, a first-round loss to LSU. Aztecs head coach Stacie Terry-Hutson, who was an assistant at LSU before taking the SDSU job, led her team to the Big Dance by securing the Mountain West title in a thrilling triple-overtime victory over Wyoming.
With momentum on their side, LSU looks to continue its dominant run as they prepare for NC State in the Sweet 16. If the Tigers maintain their high-powered offense and defensive intensity, they could be on track for another deep tournament push.
