LSU women’s basketball will play San Diego State after receiving the third seed in the NCAA Tournament.
The LSU Tigers women’s basketball team has earned the third seed in the 2025 NCAA Tournament, an achievement that reflects both the hard work of the players and the leadership of head coach Kim Mulkey. With this top-tier ranking, LSU is poised for an exciting and competitive run, and their first matchup will be against the San Diego State Aztecs. The game promises to be a thrilling encounter as LSU looks to establish its dominance and continue to build on its strong season.
LSU Tigers Women’s Basketball: A Program on the Rise
LSU’s women’s basketball program has a storied history, and under the leadership of Kim Mulkey, the program has reached new heights. Mulkey, who became the head coach in 2021, has already transformed the program into a perennial powerhouse. After leading the Baylor Bears to three NCAA championships and numerous accolades during her tenure there, she brought her championship pedigree to Baton Rouge, and the results have been evident from day one.
In her first season, Mulkey helped elevate LSU into the national conversation, making it to the NCAA Tournament and proving that LSU women’s basketball was back on the map. The 2023 season was even more promising, with the Tigers making a deep run and contending for a national title. The team’s third seed in 2025 marks another significant step in their journey under Mulkey’s leadership, a reflection of her ability to recruit elite talent, implement a winning system, and foster a championship mentality within her players.
LSU’s success has also been powered by standout players who have thrived under Mulkey’s guidance. Players like Alexis Morris, who is an experienced guard capable of taking over games with her scoring ability and leadership, have been key contributors to the Tigers’ success. In 2025, LSU enters the tournament as one of the most balanced and well-coached teams, with a mix of experienced upperclassmen and talented underclassmen.
San Diego State Aztecs: A Team with a Purpose
San Diego State has made a name for itself in recent years as a program on the rise. While they may not have the same historical cachet as some of the more traditional powerhouse programs in women’s basketball, the Aztecs have shown they can be formidable opponents. With a strong defense-first mentality and a disciplined approach, San Diego State has proven capable of causing problems for higher-seeded teams.
The Aztecs enter the tournament with confidence after a solid regular season. Their defense has been a cornerstone of their success, allowing them to stay in games against teams that are often more talented offensively. San Diego State has a reputation for grinding out tough, low-scoring games, making it difficult for opponents to find rhythm and execute their usual game plans. For LSU, this style of play could present challenges, as they’ll need to be patient and disciplined to break down San Diego State’s defensive schemes.
Much like LSU, San Diego State has key players who will need to perform at a high level for the Aztecs to have a chance in this matchup. Their star players will need to step up offensively and find ways to score against a stout LSU defense, which has shown the ability to stifle opponents when engaged. The Aztecs will also need to find ways to limit the offensive firepower of LSU, especially players like Alexis Morris, who can take over a game with her scoring ability.
Key Factors for LSU: Maintaining Offensive Efficiency and Defensive Pressure
For LSU, the key to victory against San Diego State will lie in maintaining their offensive efficiency while staying true to their defensive identity. The Tigers have one of the most potent offenses in the country, with a combination of skilled players who can attack the basket, shoot from the outside, and make plays for one another. They will need to continue moving the ball and working for good shots, particularly against a team like San Diego State that thrives on slowing down the game.
One area where LSU has an advantage over San Diego State is in their depth and versatility. While the Aztecs are more reliant on a small group of key contributors, LSU has a roster with multiple players who can step up and take on leadership roles. Whether it’s Morris handling the ball, or a player like forward Angel Reese, who can dominate the paint, LSU’s balance gives them flexibility in how they approach the game.
Defensively, LSU has been known for its aggressive style. The Tigers have the athleticism and length to pressure ball handlers, contest shots, and force turnovers. This defensive intensity will be crucial in limiting San Diego State’s offensive production. The Tigers must be mindful of keeping their defensive discipline, as the Aztecs will look to capitalize on any lapses or mistakes. Limiting easy transition opportunities and forcing San Diego State into difficult half-court sets will be critical in setting the tone.
The Intangibles: Experience and Coaching
The experience factor could prove to be a major advantage for LSU in this matchup. With veterans like Alexis Morris and Angel Reese, the Tigers have players who are not only talented but also seasoned in high-pressure situations. LSU’s experience in big games, having already made deep runs in the tournament in recent years, will help them stay focused and composed when the stakes are highest.
Additionally, Kim Mulkey’s coaching acumen will be an important asset for LSU. Mulkey is known for her ability to get the most out of her players, both on the court and in terms of mental preparation. Her experience in guiding teams through the NCAA Tournament will give LSU an edge in terms of game planning, adjustments, and managing the emotional aspects of the tournament.
On the other hand, San Diego State is led by head coach Stacie Terry, who has done an admirable job in developing a competitive team. Terry’s coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, toughness, and defensive prowess. While she may not have the same level of experience in high-stakes NCAA Tournament games as Mulkey, Terry will certainly have her team well-prepared for the challenge LSU presents. San Diego State will likely come into this game with a chip on their shoulder, determined to prove they belong on the same stage as some of the nation’s best.
What’s at Stake: National Championship Aspirations
For LSU, this game is more than just a first-round matchup; it’s an important step toward their ultimate goal: a national championship. While the third seed is impressive, it’s not enough to guarantee success. Every team in the NCAA Tournament has the potential to pull off upsets, and LSU will need to remain focused and play to its strengths in order to advance. A loss to San Diego State would not only be a setback in terms of seeding but also a huge disappointment for a team that has worked so hard to get to this point.
For the Aztecs, the opportunity to face a powerhouse like LSU represents a significant challenge but also a major chance for an upset. If San Diego State can defeat LSU, it would not only be a historic victory for the program but also a chance to make a deep run in the tournament. The Aztecs will undoubtedly come out with everything they’ve got, knowing that a win over LSU would send shockwaves through the women’s basketball landscape.
A Battle of Styles
The matchup between LSU and San Diego State is a compelling one, with both teams bringing different strengths and styles to the table. LSU, with its potent offense, depth, and championship pedigree, will look to impose its will on San Diego State. Meanwhile, the Aztecs will rely on their defensive prowess and discipline to disrupt LSU’s rhythm and keep the game within their control. In the end, it will come down to which team can execute its game plan more effectively.
For LSU, this tournament is an opportunity to show that they are among the elite teams in women’s basketball. A win over San Diego State would be a strong statement, but the Tigers know that their ultimate goal is still ahead of them. If they can remain focused, play their game, and execute when it matters most, LSU will have a strong chance of advancing deep into the tournament and ultimately vying for the national title.