Daily Report: Coach and Player of the Year, USA TODAY Sports Network 2025 All-SEC Women’s Basketball Accolades
In what has been an exciting and highly competitive season of SEC women’s basketball, the USA TODAY Sports Network has officially announced the 2025 All-SEC Women’s Basketball awards. These honors recognize the outstanding performances of coaches and players throughout the regular season, and the latest announcements bring forth accolades that reflect the grit, talent, and success seen across the Southeastern Conference.
As is customary, the SEC is home to some of the nation’s most talented players and storied programs, and this year’s honorees continue to showcase the depth of talent within the league. Here’s a breakdown of the 2025 USA TODAY Sports Network All-SEC Women’s Basketball selections, including the Coach of the Year and Player of the Year.
Coach of the Year: Kim Mulkey (LSU)
In a decision that has many fans cheering and analysts nodding in agreement, Kim Mulkey, head coach of the LSU Tigers, has been named the SEC Coach of the Year for the 2025 season. This honor recognizes Mulkey’s remarkable success in leading LSU to the top of the conference and continuing to build one of the most formidable programs in women’s college basketball.
Since Mulkey’s arrival at LSU in 2021, she has restructured the program, making them a consistent powerhouse in the SEC and on the national stage. The Tigers, led by Mulkey’s sharp coaching and unparalleled leadership, have posted impressive wins, dominated in SEC play, and are currently in the mix for a top seed in the NCAA Tournament.
Under Mulkey’s guidance, LSU has continued to elevate its level of play, with players thriving in her system and a strong defensive identity that has set them apart from many of the league’s competitors. Mulkey’s ability to develop talent and implement a strategy that maximizes her team’s potential has been crucial to LSU’s success this season, and her efforts have firmly positioned her as the 2025 SEC Coach of the Year.
This recognition comes as no surprise given LSU’s dominant play throughout the season, as well as Mulkey’s storied career that includes multiple national championships and a legacy of success. Mulkey’s ability to recruit and cultivate a winning culture in Baton Rouge has made LSU one of the hottest programs in women’s basketball.
Player of the Year: Angel Reese (LSU)
Angel Reese, forward for LSU, has been named the 2025 SEC Player of the Year, cementing her status as one of the nation’s most dominant players. Reese’s exceptional play on both ends of the floor has been integral to LSU’s success, and her individual performances have been nothing short of spectacular.
The sophomore standout has been a force to be reckoned with in the SEC, leading the league in multiple statistical categories. She has averaged a double-double for much of the season, contributing heavily on both offense and defense. Whether scoring in the paint, grabbing rebounds, or defending opponents, Reese has shown an ability to dominate in nearly every aspect of the game.
Her impressive stats and ability to take over games have made her a key component of LSU’s high-powered offense and tough defense. Reese’s presence on the floor has often been a game-changer, and her leadership has made LSU one of the toughest teams to beat in the SEC. As LSU heads into postseason play with high expectations, Reese is poised to continue her stellar play, and her recognition as the SEC Player of the Year is a reflection of the immense talent and impact she brings to the court.
2025 USA TODAY Sports Network All-SEC Women’s Basketball Selections
Along with Mulkey’s and Reese’s individual accolades, several other players from across the SEC were recognized for their outstanding performances throughout the season. The 2025 All-SEC Women’s Basketball team features a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars who have all played pivotal roles for their respective teams.
First Team All-SEC:
- Angel Reese (LSU)
- Rhyne Howard (Kentucky)
- Aliyah Boston (South Carolina)
- Jordan Horston (Tennessee)
- Zaay Green (Auburn)
Second Team All-SEC:
- Michaela Onyenwere (Mississippi State)
- Jordan Walker (Alabama)
- Leah Hemby (Missouri)
- Victoria Saxton (South Carolina)
- Jasmine Carson (LSU)
Honorable Mention All-SEC:
- Emily Engstler (Louisiana State)
- Destiny Littleton (Mississippi State)
- Jada Walker (Kentucky)
- Brittany Davis (Alabama)
Rookie of the Year: Flau’jae Johnson (LSU)
In another win for LSU, freshman Flau’jae Johnson was named SEC Rookie of the Year. A dynamic and versatile player, Johnson has been a standout for the Tigers this season, contributing on both offense and defense. Her ability to step up in big moments and deliver key plays has helped LSU remain competitive against some of the toughest opponents in the country.
Johnson’s stellar debut season has solidified her as one of the most promising young players in the SEC, and her potential for future success at LSU is limitless.
Defensive Player of the Year: Aliyah Boston (South Carolina)
Aliyah Boston, the anchor of the South Carolina Gamecocks’ defense, was named the SEC Defensive Player of the Year for the 2025 season. Boston’s incredible ability to block shots, guard the paint, and rebound at an elite level has been central to South Carolina’s success.
Her presence on the defensive end often sets the tone for the Gamecocks, and she has been a disruptive force in nearly every game this season. Boston’s versatility and ability to change the course of a game with her defense earned her this prestigious award.
Sixth Woman of the Year: Jazmine Massengill (Tennessee)
Tennessee’s Jazmine Massengill earned the honor of Sixth Woman of the Year for her outstanding contributions coming off the bench. Massengill’s ability to spark the team and provide scoring and leadership when the starters need a break has made her an invaluable asset to the Volunteers this season. Her ability to change the tempo of games and contribute in a variety of ways helped Tennessee remain one of the most competitive teams in the SEC.
The Road Ahead for the SEC
As the regular season comes to a close and teams prepare for postseason play, the SEC remains one of the most exciting and unpredictable conferences in women’s college basketball. With the announcement of the USA TODAY Sports Network 2025 All-SEC Women’s Basketball accolades, the stage is set for an intense SEC Tournament and NCAA Tournament.
LSU, with Kim Mulkey at the helm and Angel Reese leading the way, is poised for another deep run, and their dominance in the SEC has made them a favorite to contend for a national title. However, teams like South Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky will not go down without a fight, and they are all hungry for postseason success.
As the postseason gets underway, fans can expect thrilling matchups, intense competition, and high-level performances as these outstanding players and coaches continue to leave their mark on SEC women’s basketball. With the 2025 season shaping up to be one for the books, all eyes will be on the SEC as the tournament unfolds and the race for a national championship heats up.