LSU Tigers’ Strong Tournament History

LSU Women’s Basketball has a storied history in NCAA March Madness. From its first tournament appearance to the national championship in 2023, the team has been a consistent powerhouse. In 2023, LSU stunned the basketball world by claiming its first-ever NCAA Women’s Basketball National Championship under head coach Kim Mulkey, defeating Iowa in the final. This victory was a testament to the program’s resurgence under Mulkey’s leadership and her ability to recruit top talent, turning the Tigers into a force in the women’s game.

Before the championship, LSU had made a reputation for itself by frequently being a contender in the SEC, one of the most competitive conferences in women’s college basketball. Over the years, the Tigers have been a fixture in the NCAA tournament, consistently advancing to the Sweet 16, Elite Eight, and even the Final Four. This pedigree of excellence makes LSU one of the most exciting teams to follow in March Madness.

2025 LSU Women’s Basketball Regular Season Review

LSU’s 2025 season was one of balance and dominance. The Tigers went 27-4, securing a strong 12-4 conference record in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC). The team’s performance was characterized by their depth and ability to execute across all aspects of the game, from offense to defense. Their ability to score at all levels and defend fiercely set them apart from other top-tier programs.

Their regular-season success was highlighted by victories over top-ranked teams, including a high-profile win over NC State during a tournament in the Bahamas. This win bolstered LSU’s confidence and solidified its reputation as a team capable of going toe-to-toe with the best. However, they faced challenges along the way, including a few losses in SEC play, which helped shape their resolve and prepared them for the intense competition they would face in March Madness.

Key Players on the LSU Roster

Flau’jae Johnson

Flau’jae Johnson, a dynamic junior guard, has been LSU’s cornerstone player for the past couple of years. Johnson’s versatility as a scorer, rebounder, and playmaker makes her a significant threat on the court. Her scoring ability is complemented by her leadership, especially in high-pressure moments. In LSU’s 2025 run, Johnson has been pivotal in both offensive and defensive schemes, often acting as the primary ball handler and initiator of the offense.

Her performance in big games, such as the SEC tournament and early-season matchups, has proven that she can rise to the occasion. Johnson’s leadership on and off the court will be critical for LSU as they pursue another deep run in March Madness.

Angel Reese

Another standout player for LSU is Angel Reese, a dominant forward who has been a force in both the SEC and nationally. Reese brings toughness, physicality, and an incredible basketball IQ to LSU’s frontcourt. Her ability to impact the game in multiple ways — from scoring to rebounding to blocking shots — makes her an essential part of the Tigers’ success. Reese’s presence on the court provides LSU with the balance needed to compete with the top-tier teams in the tournament.

Alexis Morris

A veteran guard, Alexis Morris provides the leadership and experience that is crucial for a team aiming to make a deep run in the tournament. Morris is known for her defensive intensity and clutch performances, especially in close games. Her ability to manage the game’s tempo and create opportunities for her teammates is invaluable.

Kim Mulkey’s Influence on LSU

Since taking over as LSU’s head coach in 2021, Kim Mulkey has revitalized the program, bringing her wealth of experience and success from her time at Baylor, where she led the Bears to three national championships. Mulkey is known for her intense coaching style, attention to detail, and commitment to developing both players’ skills and their mental toughness. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes defensive intensity, ball movement, and fast-paced offense, and it’s been evident in LSU’s success under her watch.

Mulkey’s ability to recruit high-level talent and build chemistry within her team has turned LSU into an NCAA title contender once again. Her presence on the sidelines has made LSU one of the most feared programs in women’s college basketball, and that will be a crucial factor as the team competes in March Madness.

The 2025 NCAA Tournament Bracket and Path to the Final Four

The 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament bracket presents a challenging path for LSU, starting with their placement as the No. 3 seed in the Spokane 1 Regional. The regional contains a few formidable teams, including top-seeded UCLA, second-seeded NC State, and other dangerous squads like Baylor and Stanford.

However, LSU’s experience in tournament settings, coupled with the talent on their roster, makes them one of the most dangerous teams in the field. Their history of performing well against high-caliber teams, like their early-season victories against NC State and UCLA, gives them the confidence that they can compete with the best. The Tigers are well-prepared to handle tough matchups in the first and second rounds and have the potential to advance to the Final Four and beyond.

Potential Challenges in the Spokane Regional

UCLA, as the top seed in the Spokane Regional, presents a significant challenge for LSU. The Bruins are known for their strong defense, led by some of the best guards in the nation. If LSU meets UCLA, it will be a highly anticipated matchup between two powerhouses with deep rosters and championship aspirations.

Another potential challenge for LSU could be facing NC State again. The Wolfpack are always competitive, and their blend of veteran leadership and star players can be a formidable force in March Madness. While LSU has already bested them in the regular season, NC State will undoubtedly come prepared for a potential rematch.

How LSU Can Win the Tournament

To go all the way in the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament, LSU must continue to execute on both ends of the floor. Their defense has been a hallmark of their success this season, and it will be critical to maintaining that defensive intensity throughout the tournament. Additionally, LSU will need to rely on their high-powered offense, which can score in transition, from the three-point line, and in the paint.

Flau’jae Johnson and Angel Reese will need to lead the charge, with Alexis Morris providing veteran leadership in key moments. If the Tigers can stay disciplined on defense, execute their offense efficiently, and capitalize on their individual talents, they have the potential to secure another national title.

The Impact of the 2025 Tournament on LSU’s Legacy

Regardless of the outcome of the 2025 NCAA tournament, LSU’s place in women’s basketball history has already been cemented under Kim Mulkey’s leadership. With a national championship in 2023 and consistent appearances in the tournament, LSU has re-established itself as one of the premier programs in women’s college basketball.

However, a deep run or another national championship would further elevate LSU’s program and add to the legacy that Mulkey has built. LSU’s basketball program could become a perennial powerhouse, continuing to attract top recruits and compete for national titles year in and year out.

LSU Women’s Basketball enters the 2025 NCAA Tournament with high hopes and strong expectations. With a blend of talented players like Flau’jae Johnson and Angel Reese, as well as the leadership of head coach Kim Mulkey, LSU is poised for another deep March Madness run. Their seeding as a No. 3 in the Spokane Regional is a testament to their dominance during the regular season, and while they face tough competition, they have everything it takes to contend for another national championship. Fans of LSU and college basketball alike are excited to see how far the Tigers can go in this year’s tournament, as they look to build on their already remarkable legacy.