After losing Angel Reese, an LSU trio is converting skeptics into believers with another March Madness run.

When Angel Reese left LSU, many wondered whether the team would be able to sustain its success. After all, Reese was a dominant force, helping the Tigers secure the 2023 national championship and redefining what a star player could be for LSU women’s basketball. But while skeptics questioned how the team would respond, three players—Aneesah Morrow, Flau’jae Johnson, and Mikaylah Williams—have stepped up in major ways, guiding the Tigers through yet another thrilling March Madness journey. Their resilience, leadership, and undeniable talent have reshaped LSU’s narrative and positioned them as a legitimate championship contender once again.

Aneesah Morrow: A Dominant Force in the Paint

Morrow, a transfer from DePaul, was expected to play a significant role when she arrived in Baton Rouge. However, few predicted she would step up in such a monumental way. The junior forward has been the backbone of LSU’s interior game, averaging an impressive double-double and serving as a defensive anchor in the paint. Her combination of scoring ability and defensive versatility has made her an invaluable asset to Kim Mulkey’s squad.

Morrow’s ability to grab offensive rebounds and convert second-chance opportunities has been one of LSU’s biggest strengths this season. She has also showcased her ability to step outside and knock down mid-range jumpers, making her a more complete offensive threat. Perhaps most impressively, she has managed to maintain a high level of play despite increased defensive attention, a testament to her skill and composure under pressure.

“I knew I had big shoes to fill when Angel left, but I also knew this team was capable of doing special things,” Morrow said after a key victory in the SEC Tournament. “We never saw this as a rebuilding year. We saw it as a chance to prove that we could still compete at the highest level.”

Flau’jae Johnson: The Heart and Soul of LSU’s Backcourt

Flau’jae Johnson is more than just a basketball player—she’s a star in multiple arenas. While she has a flourishing rap career, she has remained laser-focused on leading LSU on the court. The sophomore guard has been instrumental in the team’s success this season, showcasing her ability to score, defend, and create opportunities for her teammates.

Johnson’s growth as a leader has been evident, particularly in high-pressure situations. With a fearless approach to the game, she has delivered clutch performances in several marquee matchups. Her confidence has been contagious, and her teammates feed off her energy, making her a catalyst for LSU’s success.

One of the most notable aspects of Johnson’s game this season has been her commitment to defense. While she has always been a capable scorer, her ability to lock down opposing guards and disrupt passing lanes has taken her impact to another level. Her defensive intensity has set the tone for the Tigers, and she has repeatedly stepped up when the team has needed a momentum-shifting play.

In an effort to minimize distractions and focus solely on her team’s championship aspirations, Johnson made the decision to temporarily step away from social media. “I wanted to put everything into this season,” she explained. “People had doubts, but we knew what we were capable of. This is about legacy. It’s about proving ourselves every single game.”

Mikaylah Williams: A Sharpshooter with Unlimited Potential

A key factor in LSU’s offensive success has been the emergence of Mikaylah Williams, the team’s deadliest shooter from beyond the arc. As a sophomore, Williams has developed into one of the nation’s most efficient perimeter scorers, knocking down threes at an impressive clip. Her ability to space the floor has opened up driving lanes for Johnson and Morrow, giving LSU a balanced and unpredictable offensive attack.

Williams’ poise and precision have been on full display in March Madness. In LSU’s second-round matchup against Florida State, she drilled five three-pointers, finishing with a game-high 27 points and leading her team to victory. Her ability to rise to the occasion in big moments has made her one of the most exciting young players in the tournament.

“I’ve always had confidence in my shot, but this year I’ve really worked on staying aggressive,” Williams said. “My teammates trust me to take those big shots, and I take a lot of pride in making sure I deliver.”

Overcoming Adversity: Injuries, Criticism, and Team Chemistry

While LSU’s success this season has been impressive, it hasn’t come without challenges. The team faced early struggles, including injuries to key players and inconsistent performances in non-conference play. Critics questioned whether the Tigers had what it took to contend with the nation’s elite teams.

Coach Kim Mulkey remained steadfast in her belief that the team would find its rhythm when it mattered most. “Every team goes through ups and downs,” she said. “What separates the great teams from the good ones is how they respond to adversity. These girls have battled through a lot, and they’ve come out stronger because of it.”

That resilience was evident in the SEC Tournament when LSU faced a tough challenge against Tennessee. Down by double digits in the second half, Morrow, Johnson, and Williams led a furious comeback, securing a crucial win that set the stage for their deep NCAA Tournament run.

March Madness 2025: The Tigers’ Path to the Final Four

As the NCAA Tournament unfolded, LSU continued to silence doubters with dominant performances. The Tigers showcased their ability to win in a variety of ways—whether through Morrow’s inside dominance, Johnson’s relentless attacking style, or Williams’ perimeter sharpshooting.

One of the biggest tests came in the Sweet 16 against NC State, a rematch from an early-season meeting. While LSU had won convincingly in November, NC State had since evolved into a more cohesive unit. Despite their improvements, the Wolfpack struggled to contain LSU’s trio, as Morrow posted a 22-point, 14-rebound double-double, Johnson added 18 points, and Williams knocked down three clutch three-pointers to seal the victory.

Now advancing to the Elite Eight, LSU finds itself one step closer to another Final Four appearance. With each game, the team has gained momentum, and their confidence is at an all-time high. The chemistry between Morrow, Johnson, and Williams has been undeniable, and their collective leadership has proven invaluable.

The Bigger Picture: LSU’s Continued Rise

Regardless of how this season ends, one thing is clear—LSU women’s basketball is here to stay. The departure of Angel Reese could have been a setback, but instead, it became a launching pad for new stars to emerge. Morrow, Johnson, and Williams have stepped into the spotlight and proven that LSU remains one of the most formidable programs in the nation.

For Coach Mulkey, this season has been about more than just winning games. It has been about building a culture of excellence, resilience, and belief. As the Tigers continue their March Madness run, they do so not just as a team looking to win another title, but as a program solidifying its place among the sport’s elite.

With Morrow’s dominance, Johnson’s energy, and Williams’ shooting, LSU has transformed from a team with question marks into a team on a mission. And as they continue to chase a championship, one thing is certain—the skeptics are rapidly becoming believers.