In a move that has sent shockwaves throughout the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and elevated LSU’s women’s basketball program to new heights, the No. 1 American forward in the Class of 2025, Kianni Westbrook, has officially committed to the LSU Tigers, choosing the reigning national powerhouse over fellow SEC contenders Alabama, Auburn, and Florida.
Standing at 6-foot-3, Westbrook’s dynamic athleticism, elite scoring ability, and versatile defensive prowess have drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greats. Her decision to don the purple and gold marks not only a monumental recruiting win for Head Coach Kim Mulkey but also a symbolic passing of the torch as LSU prepares for a new era after the departure of superstars like Angel Reese and Aneesah Morrow.
Let’s break down what this commitment means for LSU, how the Tigers pulled it off, and why Kianni Westbrook could be the next legendary name in Baton Rouge.
A Recruiting Earthquake: How LSU Beat the SEC Elite
The recruitment of Kianni Westbrook has been a high-profile saga followed closely by analysts, coaches, and fans alike. Coming out of Mount Vernon High School in New York, Westbrook has long been heralded as the top forward in the country for the 2025 class. Her commitment process featured official visits to Alabama, Auburn, Florida, and LSU, all of which rolled out the red carpet for the future star.
But in the end, it was LSU that made the most compelling case. Westbrook cited a blend of “winning culture, player development, and family energy” as major factors in her decision.
“I’ve always wanted to play somewhere where I’d be coached hard, pushed to be great, and surrounded by winners,” Westbrook said in her commitment interview. “Coach Mulkey’s legacy speaks for itself. LSU is a national brand, and I’m ready to bring more championships to Baton Rouge.”
Westbrook also pointed to the development of former LSU stars like Angel Reese, Flau’jae Johnson, and Hailey Van Lith as proof that the Tigers know how to prepare elite talent for the next level.
What LSU Is Getting in Kianni Westbrook
Make no mistake—this is not just another five-star pickup. Kianni Westbrook is a game-changer.
She is a positionless forward who can dominate the paint, step out and shoot the three, push the ball in transition, and lock down elite scorers on defense. She averaged 24.7 points, 12.3 rebounds, 3.4 assists, and 2.6 blocks per game as a high school senior while leading her team to a state title.
Her high IQ and motor have turned heads at every level. ESPNW has called her the “most complete forward prospect since Breanna Stewart,” and Nike EYBL scouts raved about her performance during the summer circuit.
What sets Westbrook apart is her competitive edge. She plays with emotion and purpose, often diving for loose balls, taking charges, and visibly leading her teammates. LSU’s fast-paced, physical brand of basketball is a perfect fit.
“She’s the kind of player who can carry a team emotionally and physically,” said recruiting analyst Debbie Antonelli. “She doesn’t take plays off. She’s vocal, intense, and she backs it up every single night.”
Kim Mulkey’s Dynasty Reloads
With Kim Mulkey at the helm, LSU has become the epicenter of women’s college basketball. In just a few seasons, Mulkey brought the Tigers their first national title in program history (2023), built a media empire around the program, and turned LSU into a must-watch spectacle.
Westbrook’s commitment reinforces the idea that LSU is no flash in the pan—they are building a dynasty.
Despite recent departures, including the WNBA exit of Angel Reese and transfer of Hailey Van Lith, LSU remains loaded with talent. Flau’jae Johnson returns as a senior leader, while underclassmen like Mikaylah Williams and Aalyah Del Rosario continue to rise.
With Westbrook now in the fold, Mulkey has secured a program cornerstone for the next four years.
“We’re building a legacy, not just a team,” Mulkey said in a statement. “Kianni is a winner, and we can’t wait to watch her grow into the next great Tiger.”
⚔️ Turning Down the SEC’s Best
Westbrook’s final list included Alabama, Auburn, and Florida, all of which made compelling offers. Each school was offering immediate playing time, NIL incentives, and personalized development plans. But LSU’s combination of on-court success and off-court branding proved too strong to overcome.
Alabama was reportedly close to securing Westbrook’s commitment earlier in the spring. Head Coach Kristy Curry and her staff pitched Westbrook as the focal point of their rebuild, but insiders say she was “drawn to LSU’s spotlight and Mulkey’s résumé.”
Auburn, under Coach Johnnie Harris, offered Westbrook a family-like culture and the opportunity to be the program’s signature star. Florida, meanwhile, leaned heavily on NIL possibilities and the chance to live in the Sunshine State.
But none of the schools could match the buzz, infrastructure, and winning pedigree that LSU provides. It was Baton Rouge or bust.
A Commitment That Broke the Internet
When Westbrook announced her commitment on Instagram Live, more than 600,000 viewers tuned in, making it one of the most-watched commitment streams in recent memory. Wearing a custom LSU Tigers jacket with “Next Queen of Baton Rouge” embroidered on the back, Westbrook’s announcement instantly became viral.
Teammates, celebrities, and WNBA stars all chimed in with their support.
Angel Reese commented, “She got that DOG in her LSU just won again.”
Even Kim Mulkey herself reposted the moment with the caption: “THE FUTURE IS NOW. Let’s get to work. #GeauxTigers”
NIL Power and Brand Building
Westbrook is not just a baller—she’s a brand. She already boasts over 1.2 million followers across social media platforms and has endorsement deals lined up with athletic apparel companies and energy drinks. Her arrival at LSU is expected to generate major NIL opportunities, making her one of the most valuable student-athletes in the country.
LSU’s infrastructure for NIL, especially through their “Bayou Traditions” collective, played a role in Westbrook’s decision. The Tigers have developed a reputation for helping athletes grow their off-court brands, and Westbrook is primed to be the next LSU athlete with cross-market appeal.
“She’s got charisma, confidence, and talent,” said sports marketing agent Carla Bronson. “In Baton Rouge, she’ll have the tools to become a national icon.”
A Leader on and Off the Court
Beyond her basketball gifts, Westbrook is a leader, mentor, and academic standout. She graduated high school with honors and plans to major in sports psychology. Her goal is to not only succeed in the WNBA but to give back to the community.
Westbrook has already launched a non-profit initiative called “Wings Up”, which supports mental health programs for female athletes in inner-city schools.
“It’s bigger than basketball for me,” Westbrook explained. “I want to use my voice and platform to help young girls who feel unseen or unheard.”
What’s Next for LSU Basketball?
With Westbrook locked in, LSU’s 2025 recruiting class now ranks No. 1 nationally, with other top prospects like five-star guard Taliah Bowers and sharpshooter Aria Dawson also committed.
The Tigers now have a roster stacked with top-10 talent, and Mulkey’s system looks poised to dominate again. The 2025–26 season could see LSU return to the Final Four, with Westbrook expected to play a pivotal role from Day One.
Mulkey has called Westbrook the “cornerstone of our future,” and early projections have the Tigers as preseason No. 1 if all key pieces stay healthy.
Final Word: Baton Rouge Just Got Brighter
Kianni Westbrook’s commitment is not just a win on the court—it’s a cultural moment. In a time where women’s sports are ascending in national relevance and NIL is reshaping college athletics, LSU is once again at the forefront, and Westbrook is the new face of the movement.
A symbol of power, promise, and purpose, Westbrook’s journey from Mount Vernon to Baton Rouge is already inspiring young athletes around the country. The Tigers have their next star—and the rest of the SEC has been put
