LSU came into the game against A&M fresh off of a loss from USC. Prior to playing USC, the LSU Women’s Basketball team was undefeated and while it was a tough loss LSU managed to pull out a win despite the quick turnaround time.
The Tigers started off their game neck and neck with the Aggies, both teams fighting to put points on the board. The Aggies managed to edge out a one-point lead by the end of the first quarter 13-12. Texas A&M’s Aicha Coulibaly was on fire, leading all scorers with 7 points. Meanwhile, LSU had a rough start, shooting only 28% in the opening quarter.
Not long into the game standout freshman, Mikaylah Williams stepped up and showed everyone why she’s the only freshman on the team this year. Williams
Richard went on to put up 7 points for the Tigers and immediately contributed once on the court and put three starters in foul trouble throughout the game. Her teammate Alyssa Morrow made her 1000th career point with her second basket of the game and after shooting 9 rebounds, jumped into the top 10 in NCAA D-1 history for rebounds.
The Tigers found their rhythm and began to capitalize on their defensive stops. Mikaylah Williams came in with a three-pointer midway through the second quarter that gave LSU their first lead of the game. By halftime, the game remained a nail-biter, with LSU clinging to a 30-25 advantage.
In the third quarter, LSU’s defense stepped up, as they forced turnovers and limited Texas A&M’s offense. Richard and Williams worked together for some quick plays that gave the Tigers’ some leg room on the scoreboard.
Alyssa Morrow also made both offensive and defensive plays, making critical rebounds and keeping shots out to keep the Aggies on their toes. Even with the effort, Texas A&M stayed slightly behind, thanks to a push led by Coulibal.
The fourth quarter was a mental battle for both teams as they fought to control the court. LSU made use of their veterans, with Morrow and Williams both delivering so the Tigers’ could keep the lead. The Aggies attempted a late-game comeback, but costly fouls and missed free throws hindered their chances. In the final minutes, LSU sealed the victory with a pair of free throws from Richard, ending the game with a hard-fought 64-51 win.
The Tigers showed resilience in bouncing back from their previous loss, proving they remain a force to be reckoned with in the season ahead.