As the LSU Tigers defeat the Florida State Seminoles in the second round, Mikaylah Williams and Aneesah Morrow excel.

The LSU Tigers delivered a commanding performance in the second round of the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament, securing a resounding 101-71 victory over the Florida State Seminoles. With standout performances from Mikaylah Williams and Aneesah Morrow, LSU’s win cemented their place in the Sweet 16, demonstrating their strength and determination in the competition.

First Half: A Fierce Battle

The game started as a tightly contested battle, with both teams exchanging scoring runs. Florida State’s star guard, Ta’Niya Latson, was dominant in the first half, scoring 23 points and keeping the Seminoles in contention. Her quick drives and long-range shots posed a challenge for LSU’s defense, forcing adjustments from head coach Kim Mulkey.

Despite Latson’s offensive explosion, LSU showcased their offensive depth. Mikaylah Williams and Aneesah Morrow took charge, combining for multiple crucial baskets to maintain a slim 50-49 halftime lead. The close score set the stage for an intense second half, but LSU had different plans.

Third Quarter: LSU Takes Over

Emerging from the locker room with renewed intensity, LSU completely took control of the game in the third quarter. A decisive 31-6 scoring run by the Tigers overwhelmed Florida State, effectively putting the game out of reach.

Flau’Jae Johnson, who had been limited in the first half due to a shin injury, returned with a vengeance, igniting the Tigers’ momentum. Her playmaking ability and aggressive drives to the basket helped LSU extend their lead. Johnson’s no-look pass to Aneesah Morrow for an easy layup electrified the crowd and further cemented the Tigers’ dominance.

Morrow continued her stellar performance, battling in the paint and securing crucial rebounds. By the end of the third quarter, LSU had a commanding 81-55 lead, leaving little doubt about the game’s outcome.

Key Player Performances

Mikaylah Williams: A Star in the Making

Williams led LSU with a spectacular 28-point performance. Her scoring efficiency and ability to create opportunities made her the focal point of LSU’s offense. She hit key three-pointers, attacked the rim with confidence, and made critical plays on the defensive end.

Aneesah Morrow: Double-Double Dominance

Morrow was a force in the paint, finishing with 26 points and 11 rebounds. Her physical presence and relentless effort helped LSU control the boards and dictate the tempo of the game.

Flau’Jae Johnson: Overcoming Adversity

Despite playing through injury, Johnson delivered 13 points, with nine coming in the explosive third quarter. Her resilience and ability to step up in crucial moments provided LSU with a significant boost.

Sa’Myah Smith: Bench Production

Coming off the bench, Smith had a career night, scoring 20 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. Her contributions underscored LSU’s depth and ability to execute even when rotating players.

LSU’s Defensive Prowess

LSU’s defensive adjustments in the second half were key to their victory. After allowing 49 first-half points, the Tigers tightened their defensive schemes, holding Florida State to just 22 points in the final 20 minutes. The combination of aggressive perimeter defense and dominant rebounding neutralized the Seminoles’ offensive attack.

Florida State, which entered the game as the nation’s top-scoring team with an average of 87.4 points per game, struggled to find a rhythm in the second half. The Tigers’ defensive pressure forced them into rushed shots and costly turnovers, shifting the momentum entirely in LSU’s favor.

Looking Ahead

With this emphatic victory, LSU advances to the Sweet 16, where they will face another formidable opponent. The Tigers’ ability to execute on both ends of the floor, combined with their depth and star power, makes them a strong contender for the championship.

On the other hand, Florida State concludes their season with a 24-9 record. Despite their tournament exit, the Seminoles showed glimpses of brilliance throughout the season, and with players like Ta’Niya Latson leading the way, the program remains in a strong position moving forward.

Conclusion

LSU’s second-round victory over Florida State was a statement performance. Led by Mikaylah Williams and Aneesah Morrow, the Tigers demonstrated their offensive firepower and defensive resilience. With their eyes set on a deep tournament run, LSU looks poised to continue their quest for NCAA glory.