LSU Tigers, Kim Mulkey Face Florida State in NCAA Tournament Second Round: A Game of Strategy, Legacy, and the Road Ahead

Introduction

The NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament is always filled with intense matchups, and this year’s second-round battle between the LSU Tigers, coached by the ever-determined Kim Mulkey, and Florida State promises to be a thrilling contest. LSU, fresh off a strong season in which they have cemented themselves as one of the premier programs in college basketball, will face off against Florida State, a team known for its gritty defense and formidable leadership. For LSU, this game is not just about advancing in the tournament but also about continuing to build upon the success that head coach Kim Mulkey has instilled in the program since her arrival.

This matchup is set to be an exciting clash of coaching styles, team dynamics, and individual performances. With both teams vying for a spot in the NCAA Tournament’s next stage, the stakes couldn’t be higher. In this detailed preview, we will dive into the game’s significance, key players to watch, tactical breakdowns, and how Kim Mulkey’s LSU Tigers will approach the challenge against Florida State.

LSU Tigers: A Program on the Rise Under Kim Mulkey

Since taking over as LSU’s head coach in 2021, Kim Mulkey has turned the Tigers into a powerhouse in women’s basketball. A three-time NCAA champion with Baylor, Mulkey’s impact at LSU has been swift and dramatic. In her short tenure, she has managed to transform LSU into an elite program, consistently competing for high seeds in the NCAA Tournament.

Mulkey’s coaching philosophy centers around discipline, defense, and a relentless work ethic—values that have been instilled in the Tigers since day one. Under Mulkey’s guidance, LSU has achieved remarkable success, including top-tier rankings in the SEC and a reputation for being one of the toughest teams to play against in the country. Mulkey’s blend of old-school toughness and modern strategy has made LSU one of the most formidable teams in women’s college basketball today.

At the core of LSU’s success has been its ability to combine star power with a well-balanced team. Players like Angel Reese, who has emerged as one of the most dominant forwards in the country, have taken the Tigers to the next level, while other role players have thrived in their specific roles within the system. As they head into this second-round matchup, Mulkey’s team is ready to face the challenge of Florida State, with a focus on continuing to build on their remarkable season.

Kim Mulkey: A Legendary Coach and Her Influence on LSU

Kim Mulkey is undoubtedly one of the most respected figures in women’s basketball, both for her on-court accomplishments as a player and her incredible coaching resume. Her decision to leave Baylor, where she had built one of the most successful programs in the nation, to take the head coaching job at LSU raised some eyebrows, but her results have been undeniable.

Mulkey’s approach to the game is about more than just strategy; it’s about creating an atmosphere where hard work, accountability, and resilience are at the forefront. This mentality has permeated throughout LSU’s program, where players have bought into her system and have been pushed to their limits. Mulkey’s understanding of the intricacies of the NCAA Tournament, combined with her experience on the national stage, gives LSU an edge in high-pressure moments like the one they will face against Florida State.

Florida State: A Tough, Defensive-Minded Team

Florida State, under the leadership of head coach Sue Semrau, has built its identity around defense and a never-say-die attitude. The Seminoles have consistently been one of the top teams in the ACC, and their style of play reflects their toughness and discipline. Florida State’s defense is known for being one of the most aggressive in the country, and their ability to force turnovers and get out in transition has been a key to their success.

While they may not have the same star power that LSU boasts, Florida State’s depth, strong team chemistry, and disciplined approach make them a formidable opponent. The Seminoles’ ability to stifle high-scoring teams with their defensive schemes could pose a significant challenge to LSU’s high-powered offense.

In particular, Florida State’s ability to guard the perimeter and contest shots will be critical in this game. If they can neutralize LSU’s outside shooting and limit second-chance opportunities, they’ll have a shot at pulling off the upset. The key for Florida State will be maintaining their defensive intensity for the full 40 minutes and capitalizing on any offensive opportunities that arise.

Key Players to Watch

Angel Reese (LSU)

There’s no question that Angel Reese is the player to watch for LSU. A dominant forward who has been a double-double machine all season long, Reese has been the heart and soul of LSU’s offense. Her ability to score inside, crash the boards, and protect the rim makes her one of the most versatile players in the country.

Reese’s performance in the second round will be crucial, as she will likely be the focal point of LSU’s offensive strategy. Florida State’s defense will likely double-team her or send extra help, so Reese’s ability to pass out of the post and find open teammates will be key. If she can continue her dominant play in the paint and impose her will on the Seminoles, LSU will have a good chance to advance to the next round.

LaDazhia Williams (LSU)

LaDazhia Williams, another key player for LSU, provides a steady presence in the frontcourt. Williams is known for her rebounding and shot-blocking abilities, as well as her ability to score in the post. Against Florida State’s tough defense, Williams will need to be efficient in her scoring and contribute in other ways, such as grabbing offensive boards and providing solid defense on the other end of the floor.

Jiselle Linton (Florida State)

Jiselle Linton is a standout guard for Florida State who has the ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor. Known for her scoring ability, Linton has been one of the key offensive weapons for the Seminoles throughout the season. Her ability to drive to the basket and score in transition will be critical for Florida State, as they will need to generate easy points to keep up with LSU’s offensive firepower.

Nausia Woolfolk (Florida State)

Nausia Woolfolk is another player to watch for Florida State, as her leadership and scoring ability have made her one of the team’s go-to players. Woolfolk’s ability to play both on and off the ball makes her a dynamic offensive threat. Her experience and poise in big-game situations will be essential for Florida State as they try to navigate the pressure of playing in the NCAA Tournament against a team of LSU’s caliber.

Tactical Breakdown: LSU vs Florida State

LSU’s Offensive Strategy

For LSU, the offensive game plan will revolve around getting Angel Reese the ball in positions where she can dominate. Whether it’s in the low post or in pick-and-roll situations, LSU will look to exploit Reese’s skills as a scorer and rebounder. With Florida State’s defense likely focusing on stopping Reese, LSU will also need to get contributions from other players, especially from the perimeter.

LSU’s ability to shoot the three-ball will be critical, as Florida State’s defense may collapse on Reese in the paint, opening up opportunities for shooters on the outside. Players like Alexis Morris and Flau’jae Johnson will need to step up and knock down shots when given the opportunity, spreading the floor and giving Reese more space to operate.

Florida State’s Defensive Strategy

Florida State’s defense is built around pressure, forcing turnovers, and contesting shots. They will likely deploy a mix of man-to-man and zone defenses to try to neutralize LSU’s offensive weapons. The key for Florida State will be their ability to limit LSU’s second-chance opportunities and force them into tough shots.

Florida State will need to be disciplined in their defensive rotations, ensuring that they don’t overcommit and give LSU easy looks. If they can disrupt LSU’s flow on offense, limit Reese’s impact, and force turnovers, they could set themselves up for an upset.

The Battle of Depth

One area where Florida State may have an advantage is depth. While LSU has a few stars that can take over the game, Florida State has a more balanced roster with multiple players capable of contributing on both ends of the floor. This could become a factor in the second half, as Florida State’s ability to rotate players in and out and maintain defensive intensity could wear down LSU’s starters.

The upcoming LSU vs. Florida State NCAA Tournament second-round matchup is sure to be an exciting contest. With both teams bringing their unique strengths to the floor, it’s a game that will be decided by which team can execute its game plan better and adjust to the challenges posed by the opposing team. For LSU, led by Kim Mulkey, this is another opportunity to solidify their status as one of the nation’s elite programs. For Florida State, this is a chance to prove that they can compete with the best of the best.

As the game draws closer, fans of both teams will be eagerly awaiting the outcome of this crucial second-round showdown. Whether it’s Kim Mulkey’s tactical brilliance or Florida State’s relentless defense that prevails, one thing is certain: this will be a game to remember in the 2025 NCAA Tournament.