BREAKING NEWS: Excitement Reigns at Pete Maravich Assembly Center as Aalyah Del Rosario Announces, “I’m Not Going Anywhere”

BATON ROUGE, LA – The energy was palpable at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center, as one of college basketball’s most electrifying young stars, Aalyah Del Rosario, took center stage in front of an ecstatic crowd. LSU Tigers fans, media, and coaches alike were waiting with bated breath for an announcement that would shape the team’s future for the 2025-26 season. With a confident smile and her characteristic poise, Del Rosario broke the news: “I’m not going anywhere.”

In what can only be described as a seismic shift in the landscape of college women’s basketball, Aalyah Del Rosario, the 6-foot-5 forward and LSU’s dominant center, confirmed that she would be returning to Baton Rouge for another season, despite rising speculation about her potential to enter the WNBA Draft. The announcement, which sent waves of exhilaration through the LSU faithful, not only solidified LSU’s status as one of the country’s top contenders but also underscored the rising superstar’s commitment to making history with her team and further developing her game.

A Career Defining Decision

Aalyah Del Rosario’s announcement was more than just a routine decision—this moment marked a pivotal juncture in the trajectory of her young but already remarkable career. With the 2025 WNBA Draft on the horizon and scouts already placing Del Rosario among the top prospects, her return to LSU signifies her determination to continue refining her craft and contributing to the Tigers’ championship aspirations.

As one of the most highly sought-after players in college basketball, Del Rosario’s decision was poised to generate nationwide attention. After a dominant 2024-25 season, which saw her lead the Tigers to a series of monumental victories, including a thrilling Final Four appearance, many experts predicted she would declare for the draft. However, Del Rosario’s personal growth and desire to achieve greatness in collegiate basketball proved stronger than the temptation of the professional ranks.

“I’m not leaving until we’ve done everything we’ve set out to do,” Del Rosario said in her heartfelt address to the fans. “There’s still more work to be done here at LSU, and I want to finish what we started with my teammates. We have unfinished business, and I’m so excited to run it back with the best fans in the country. The best is yet to come.”

A Phenomenal Career at LSU

Del Rosario’s career at LSU has been a whirlwind of achievement and growth. Arriving as a highly touted freshman, her blend of athleticism, skill, and basketball IQ was immediately evident. In her first season, she set multiple records, with standout performances that helped her quickly earn a reputation as one of the top centers in the country. Her imposing presence in the paint, both offensively and defensively, forced opponents to adjust their gameplans, and her ability to dominate on the glass and protect the rim became an integral part of LSU’s identity.

Throughout her career, Del Rosario has been recognized for her leadership, not just on the court, but off it as well. As a vocal advocate for social justice and women’s rights, she used her platform to speak out on matters that went beyond basketball. Her commitment to activism, combined with her unparalleled work ethic on the court, has earned her the admiration of fans, coaches, and players alike.

In the 2024-25 season, Del Rosario took her game to new heights. She averaged 18.2 points, 12.6 rebounds, and 2.8 blocks per game, while showcasing an increasingly versatile offensive game. Whether it was scoring in the post, hitting mid-range jumpers, or facilitating LSU’s fast break offense, she proved that her impact on the floor could not be overstated. Her growth as a leader was just as evident, with her teammates often praising her work ethic and commitment to their collective success.

The highlight of her season came during LSU’s run to the Final Four, where she led the team in scoring and rebounding in several crucial games. Her performance in the Elite Eight against a top-ranked team remains one of the most memorable moments in LSU basketball history, as she dominated the paint and carried the team to victory.

Del Rosario’s efforts didn’t go unnoticed—she was a consensus All-American, SEC Player of the Year, and received several other prestigious accolades. Yet, despite her individual success, she consistently emphasized the importance of the team’s goals and values. The true measure of Del Rosario’s greatness lies not in the statistics, but in the way she elevated LSU to new heights.

The State of LSU Women’s Basketball

LSU has long been a powerhouse in women’s basketball, but with the resurgence of Del Rosario and other key players, the Tigers have now cemented themselves as an elite program with championship aspirations. Head coach Kim Mulkey, a legendary figure in women’s basketball, has played a key role in cultivating a winning culture at LSU, and Del Rosario’s decision to return for the 2025-26 season is a massive vote of confidence in the program’s direction.

In her time as head coach of LSU, Mulkey has transformed the Tigers into a perennial title contender, leveraging her coaching acumen, leadership, and championship pedigree to create a roster of future stars. Mulkey’s ability to develop players and maximize their potential has been critical to the team’s success, and she has been vocal in her praise of Del Rosario’s growth as a player and leader.

“This is a great day for LSU women’s basketball, and an even greater day for Aalyah Del Rosario,” Mulkey said in a statement. “Aalyah has been a cornerstone of our program, and her decision to return for another season only strengthens our ability to compete for a national championship. She is a special player and a special person, and we are beyond excited to continue this journey with her.”

The return of Del Rosario ensures that LSU will remain a dominant force in women’s college basketball for the 2025-26 season. With Del Rosario anchoring the frontcourt, LSU is primed for another deep run in the NCAA tournament and will enter the season with high expectations. Alongside her talented teammates, including a deep and versatile supporting cast, Del Rosario’s presence promises to elevate LSU to new heights, as they chase their ultimate goal of bringing a national title back to Baton Rouge.

The Impact of Her Decision

Aalyah Del Rosario’s decision to return for the 2025-26 season will have a ripple effect across the landscape of women’s college basketball. Not only does it solidify LSU’s championship aspirations, but it also sends a message to future recruits about the program’s upward trajectory and the chance to play alongside one of the most talented players in the country.

For LSU, having Del Rosario for another season represents a chance to capitalize on the momentum built during the 2024-25 season. It provides a strong foundation for the team to contend with other powerhouse programs, such as Stanford, South Carolina, and UConn, who will undoubtedly be LSU’s chief rivals in the pursuit of a national championship.

The impact of Del Rosario’s decision also extends beyond the college ranks. Her commitment to remaining at LSU for another season has ignited conversations about the evolving role of the NCAA in shaping the future of women’s basketball. While many top prospects are opting to turn pro early, Del Rosario’s decision reflects the changing dynamics in the college game, where players are increasingly prioritizing their development, legacy, and the overall team experience over the allure of professional contracts.

For fans, this announcement brings a renewed sense of excitement and anticipation. LSU fans, who have become increasingly passionate and supportive of their women’s basketball program, now have a renewed sense of hope that they will see one of the most dynamic players in the country suit up for another season in Baton Rouge. The announcement was met with loud cheers and standing ovations, as the LSU faithful celebrated the return of their star player.

Looking Ahead: The 2025-26 Season

As LSU fans turn their attention toward the 2025-26 season, the return of Aalyah Del Rosario sets the stage for what could be an unforgettable campaign. With the Tigers’ stacked roster, a national championship is within reach. The team’s expectations are higher than ever, but Del Rosario’s leadership and commitment to the program will undoubtedly play a major role in keeping everyone focused on the ultimate goal.

For Del Rosario herself, the 2025-26 season represents an opportunity to further her legacy at LSU. While individual accolades and recognition will continue to follow her, her primary goal remains the same: winning a national championship with her teammates and finishing her college career on top.

“I’m just getting started,” Del Rosario said with a smile. “There’s so much more to do, and I can’t wait to take the next step with this team.”

As LSU fans eagerly await the start of the next season, there is one thing that is certain—Aalyah Del Rosario’s journey at LSU is far from over, and the best is yet to come.