LSU, Kim Mulkey vs Florida State: Game Time Set for NCAA Tournament Second Round Matchup

As the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament heats up, fans are eagerly anticipating one of the most exciting matchups of the second round: LSU (Louisiana State University) under head coach Kim Mulkey versus the Florida State Seminoles. Both teams have earned their spot in the second round with dominant performances in the opening round, and now they’re set to face off in a game that will likely be one of the most intense and competitive of the tournament.

For LSU, this game marks another important step in their quest for a national championship under the guidance of their star coach Kim Mulkey, whose leadership has reinvigorated the program and brought it back to national prominence. For Florida State, this is an opportunity to prove that their defense-first, high-pressure style can take down one of the top programs in the country.

This game promises to be a thrilling contest, not just because of the individual talent on both teams, but because of the coaching strategies, team dynamics, and styles of play that will collide. Fans are in for a treat, as this is one of the marquee matchups in the second round, with both teams boasting their own strengths and deep rosters. So, what can we expect from the LSU Tigers, led by Kim Mulkey, and the Florida State Seminoles as they square off on the biggest stage of college women’s basketball?

The LSU Tigers Under Kim Mulkey: A Resurgent Force in Women’s Basketball

Kim Mulkey’s arrival at LSU in 2021 has been nothing short of transformative. The legendary coach, known for her three NCAA Championships with Baylor, immediately turned the Tigers into national contenders with her innovative coaching style, ability to recruit top talent, and focus on team-first basketball. In her relatively short tenure, Mulkey has already elevated LSU into the ranks of the country’s elite programs.

LSU is a team with both depth and star power. While Mulkey’s emphasis is on team defense and disciplined offense, LSU also boasts several individual players who are capable of changing the course of a game. The Tigers’ roster is stacked with talent, and their overall team chemistry has allowed them to dominate through the first round and continue their march toward the Final Four.

Key Players for LSU

1. Angel Reese – Perhaps the most well-known player for LSU, Angel Reese has been sensational all season. The junior forward has been dominant in the paint, scoring at will and collecting double-doubles with remarkable consistency. Reese is a versatile player, able to dominate both offensively and defensively, and she has shown time and again that she’s capable of taking over games when needed. Whether it’s using her size and strength to finish inside or stepping out to hit jump shots, Reese is a matchup nightmare for opponents.
2. Flau’jae Johnson – Freshman Flau’jae Johnson has quickly become one of the most exciting players in women’s college basketball. Known for her scoring ability, athleticism, and defensive intensity, Johnson has been a key piece of LSU’s success this season. She is capable of lighting up the scoreboard, but she also brings a level of energy and grit that embodies the Tigers’ overall team mentality. Johnson will be crucial in LSU’s pursuit of victory, especially when it comes to neutralizing Florida State’s defense.
3. Alexis Morris – A seasoned point guard, Alexis Morris provides leadership and playmaking ability. Morris is known for her court vision, ability to run the offense, and knack for creating opportunities for her teammates. Her experience will be vital as LSU navigates the pressures of the tournament, especially in a high-stakes second-round matchup.

LSU’s Team Strengths

One of LSU’s major strengths is their dominant rebounding. The Tigers control the glass with both offensive and defensive rebounding, which allows them to limit their opponents’ second-chance opportunities while maximizing their own. LSU’s defense, particularly in transition, has also been a key component of their success. The Tigers are aggressive on defense and can stifle teams with their physicality and defensive pressure.

Offensively, LSU is balanced. While Angel Reese is the focal point, they have several players who can contribute at a high level. This balance makes LSU a tough team to stop, as they don’t rely solely on one player to win games. Their ability to score inside and on the perimeter, combined with their defensive prowess, makes LSU one of the toughest teams in the tournament.

Florida State Seminoles: Defensive Prowess and Balanced Play

Florida State, under head coach Brooke Wyckoff, has established itself as one of the top defensive teams in the country. The Seminoles are known for their pressure defense, creating turnovers, and forcing opponents into uncomfortable positions. While Florida State may not have the same star power as LSU, they are a balanced and gritty team that relies on teamwork, defense, and hustle.

The Seminoles have made it to the second round thanks to their solid all-around play, and they’ll need to continue playing their best basketball to take down LSU. Florida State’s aggressive defensive schemes, combined with their ability to execute on offense, make them a tough matchup for any team. If Florida State can successfully disrupt LSU’s flow and limit their fast-break opportunities, they’ll have a chance to pull off an upset.

Key Players for Florida State

1. Ta’Niya Latson – Latson is the star player for Florida State and one of the most explosive scorers in the nation. The guard is known for her ability to drive to the basket, hit long-range shots, and create offense in clutch situations. Latson’s ability to score in multiple ways makes her a threat from anywhere on the court, and she’ll be crucial in any attempt to slow down LSU’s offensive attack.
2. Miah Hines-Allen – A versatile forward, Miah Hines-Allen is a key contributor for Florida State, particularly on defense and rebounding. Her ability to protect the rim and score inside gives Florida State a presence in the paint, and she will be a crucial factor in limiting LSU’s opportunities in the post.
3. Morgan Jones – Morgan Jones brings leadership and experience to Florida State’s backcourt. Known for her defensive tenacity and ability to contribute offensively, Jones will need to step up against LSU’s high-powered offense. Her defensive skills, in particular, will be crucial in trying to slow down LSU’s perimeter players.

Florida State’s Team Strengths

Florida State’s defensive pressure is its hallmark. The Seminoles thrive on creating turnovers and capitalizing on fast-break opportunities. Their ability to get in passing lanes, trap opposing players, and force hurried shots makes them one of the toughest defensive teams in the country. Florida State’s defense-first mentality has carried them through tough games, and they will need to bring that same intensity against LSU.

Offensively, Florida State relies on a balanced attack. While Latson is their primary scorer, the Seminoles have multiple players capable of contributing at a high level. Their unselfishness on offense, combined with their ability to attack the basket and stretch the floor, makes them a tough team to defend.

LSU vs. Florida State: A Clash of Styles

One of the most intriguing aspects of this second-round matchup is the contrast in playing styles between LSU and Florida State. LSU’s physicality, depth, and offensive firepower will be put to the test against Florida State’s relentless defense, which aims to disrupt and stifle any offensive flow.

Key Factors for LSU’s Success

1. Controlling the Paint – LSU’s size and strength in the post, especially with Angel Reese, gives them an edge in the paint. The Tigers will need to dominate the boards and establish themselves inside to open up the perimeter for their shooters.
2. Defensive Transition – Florida State excels at turning defense into offense, so LSU will need to be cautious in transition. If LSU can limit Florida State’s fast-break opportunities, they will be able to control the tempo of the game.
3. Key Player Performances – For LSU to win, they’ll need big performances from their stars, especially Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson. These players have the ability to take over games, and LSU will rely on them to shine in this critical tournament matchup.

Key Factors for Florida State’s Success

1. Defensive Pressure – Florida State’s best chance at winning is through their defense. The Seminoles will need to disrupt LSU’s offensive rhythm, force turnovers, and limit easy scoring opportunities for the Tigers.
2. Slowing Down Angel Reese – Reese’s dominance in the post is one of LSU’s biggest strengths. Florida State will need to find ways to neutralize her and make her work for every point she scores. If they can limit her impact in the paint, they will have a better chance of containing LSU’s offense.
3. Balanced Scoring – While Ta’Niya Latson is the star, Florida State will need contributions from players like Miah Hines-Allen and Morgan Jones. A balanced scoring effort will help alleviate the pressure on Latson and make it harder for LSU to focus on shutting down just one player.

Game Time and Viewing Information

The LSU Tigers vs. Florida State Seminoles NCAA Tournament second-round game will be held on [insert date and time here]. Fans across the country will be watching this exciting matchup to see which team advances further into the tournament. Whether you’re watching in person, on TV, or streaming online, this game promises to deliver high drama, intense basketball, and incredible talent.