In a commanding display of skill and teamwork, the LSU Tigers secured a 101-71 victory over the Florida State Seminoles in the second round of the women’s NCAA Tournament on March 24, 2025. This win propels LSU into the Sweet Sixteen, underscoring their determination and prowess on the national stage.
First Half: A Competitive Start
The game commenced with high intensity, as Florida State’s standout guard, Ta’Niya Latson, made an immediate impact by scoring the Seminoles’ first 12 points within the opening four minutes. Latson’s aggressive drives and versatile scoring kept Florida State competitive, culminating in a remarkable 23-point performance by halftime.
LSU responded with balanced scoring and strategic plays. Freshman sensation Mikaylah Williams showcased her offensive capabilities early on, contributing significantly to the Tigers’ score. Despite facing a narrow 50-49 lead at halftime, LSU’s cohesive play hinted at their potential to dominate in the subsequent quarters.
Third Quarter: LSU’s Decisive Surge
The third quarter marked a turning point for the Tigers. Flau’Jae Johnson, who had limited minutes in the first half due to a shin injury, returned with renewed vigor. Her dynamic plays, including a notable right-handed hook shot while drawing a foul, ignited LSU’s momentum. This energy translated into a staggering 31-6 run in the third quarter, effectively dismantling Florida State’s defense and establishing a commanding lead.
Key Performances: Williams and Morrow Shine
Mikaylah Williams delivered an exceptional performance, leading all scorers with 28 points on an efficient 10-of-12 shooting, including a perfect 3-of-3 from beyond the arc. Her poise and accuracy were instrumental in LSU’s offensive dominance.
Aneesah Morrow complemented Williams’ efforts with a near triple-double, amassing 26 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists. Her versatility and court awareness were pivotal in both scoring and facilitating plays, demonstrating her integral role in the team’s success.
Supporting Contributions: Smith and Johnson
Sa’Myah Smith emerged as a formidable presence in the paint, recording a season-high 20 points and 12 rebounds. Her dominance under the basket provided LSU with a significant advantage in interior play.
Despite her earlier injury concerns, Flau’Jae Johnson’s return in the second half added a spark to the Tigers’ offense. Her tenacity and clutch plays contributed to LSU’s decisive third-quarter run, further solidifying the team’s lead.
Defensive Adjustments: Neutralizing Latson
After Latson’s explosive first half, LSU implemented strategic defensive adjustments to contain her impact. Guard Shayeann Day-Wilson emphasized the importance of disrupting Latson’s rhythm, likening her to the “engine” of Florida State’s offense. This focused defense limited Latson to just two points in the second half, effectively stifling the Seminoles’ scoring opportunities.
Statistical Highlights and Historical Significance
LSU’s second-half performance was marked by impressive statistics:
- Shooting Efficiency: The Tigers shot 54% (19 of 35) in the latter half, showcasing their offensive efficiency.
- Points off Turnovers: They capitalized on Florida State’s mistakes, scoring 11 points off turnovers.
- Paint Dominance: LSU outscored the Seminoles 28-8 in the paint during the second half, highlighting their control over the interior game.
Notably, this game marked the first time in NCAA Tournament history that a post duo recorded two 20-point double-doubles with at least 5 assists each, a feat achieved by Morrow and Smith.
Looking Ahead: LSU’s Path in the Tournament
With this victory, LSU advances to the Sweet Sixteen, where they will face formidable opponents in Spokane, Washington. The Tigers’ recent performances, characterized by resilience and strategic execution, position them as strong contenders in the tournament. However, they must maintain their defensive intensity and offensive cohesion to navigate the challenges ahead.
LSU’s triumph over Florida State was a testament to their depth, adaptability, and determination. Led by standout performances from Mikaylah Williams and Aneesah Morrow, the Tigers demonstrated their capability to overcome adversity and dominate on the national stage. As they prepare for the next phase of the NCAA Tournament, LSU’s blend of talent and tenacity will be crucial in their pursuit of championship success.
Leave a Reply