LSU Women’s Basketball Transfer Portal Tracker: Assessing Kim Mulkey’s Roster Moves

As the 2025 NCAA women’s basketball offseason unfolds, LSU head coach Kim Mulkey has been actively reshaping her roster through the transfer portal. With key departures and strategic acquisitions, Mulkey aims to maintain the Tigers’ competitive edge in the SEC and on the national stage.

Departures: Navigating Key Losses

The Tigers have experienced several significant departures:

• Angel Reese: After a standout season, Reese declared for the WNBA Draft, marking the end of her collegiate career.
• Hailey Van Lith: Van Lith entered the transfer portal, seeking a fifth year of eligibility elsewhere.
• Sa’Myah Smith: Smith’s exit adds to the frontcourt vacancies LSU must address.
• Aalyah Del Rosario: Another frontcourt player who transferred, further depleting LSU’s post presence.
• Janae Kent: A freshman guard who played limited minutes, Kent’s departure adds to the roster turnover.

These losses have left LSU with gaps in both the backcourt and frontcourt, necessitating strategic acquisitions to maintain their elite status.

Acquisitions: Strengthening the Roster

In response to these departures, Mulkey has secured several impactful transfers:

• Jersey Wolfenbarger (Arkansas): A 6-foot-5 forward, Wolfenbarger brings versatility and depth to LSU’s frontcourt.
• Shayeann Day-Wilson (Miami/Duke): A seasoned guard with experience in the ACC, Day-Wilson adds leadership and playmaking to the backcourt.Kailyn Gilbert (Arizona): Gilbert’s scoring ability and perimeter shooting bolster LSU’s offensive options.
• Mjracle Sheppard (Mississippi State): A defensive-minded guard, Sheppard’s presence enhances LSU’s perimeter defense.

These additions aim to fill the void left by departing players and strengthen LSU’s depth across positions.

Strategic Outlook: Building for the Future

Mulkey’s approach reflects a commitment to maintaining LSU’s championship aspirations. By targeting experienced transfers and addressing specific positional needs, she aims to create a balanced and competitive roster. The integration of these new players with returning talents will be crucial in sustaining LSU’s prominence in women’s college basketball.

As the offseason progresses, LSU’s roster continues to evolve. Mulkey’s strategic moves in the transfer portal underscore her dedication to building a team capable of contending for national titles. With a blend of experienced transfers and returning players, the Tigers are poised for another competitive season.