BREAKING NEWS: Aalyah Del Rosario Announces Return to LSU for 2025-26 Season, Energizing Fans and Team at Pete Maravich Assembly Center
The LSU Tigers women’s basketball team received a major boost today with the announcement that Aalyah Del Rosario, one of the most dominant players in college basketball, will be returning for the 2025-26 season. This announcement has electrified both the LSU fanbase and the team, ensuring that the Tigers will once again be in the conversation for a national championship.
Del Rosario, a 6-foot-5 center from the Bronx, New York, has been a force for LSU since she arrived on campus. Known for her impressive size, skill, and basketball IQ, she quickly became one of the most impactful players in the nation. Her presence in the paint, both offensively and defensively, has made LSU a formidable opponent in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) and beyond. Her return to LSU is a major development for the program and a sign of her commitment to achieving even greater success at the collegiate level.
After leading LSU to multiple successful seasons and showcasing her ability to dominate in both scoring and rebounding, many expected Del Rosario to declare for the WNBA Draft. However, in an unexpected turn of events, Del Rosario announced that she would be returning to LSU for her senior season. This decision has sent shockwaves through the college basketball world, as Del Rosario is widely regarded as one of the best players in the country.
The announcement came at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center, the home of LSU basketball, where a packed crowd of fans, coaches, and teammates gathered to hear the news firsthand. Del Rosario, visibly excited and confident, took the stage and addressed the crowd, thanking her coaches, teammates, and the LSU faithful for their support. She expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to play at LSU and her desire to finish what she started, noting that she believes the team has unfinished business to take care of in the upcoming season.
Del Rosario’s return to LSU is not just a victory for the team, but also for the entire LSU athletics program. The Tigers’ women’s basketball team has been steadily improving under head coach Kim Mulkey, who has built a program with national championship aspirations. Mulkey, who took over as LSU’s head coach in 2021, has brought an exciting, fast-paced style of basketball to Baton Rouge, and the addition of Del Rosario for another season solidifies LSU’s position as one of the top programs in the country.
For Mulkey, the return of Del Rosario is a testament to the work that the coaching staff has put in to develop their players both on and off the court. Mulkey has always emphasized the importance of building a strong relationship with her players, and Del Rosario’s decision to return speaks to the trust and respect that has developed between the two. Mulkey’s ability to recruit top-tier talent, combined with her focus on player development, has played a significant role in LSU’s rise to prominence in women’s college basketball.
Del Rosario’s return is also a major boon for the Tigers’ chances of securing another deep tournament run. LSU has been a regular contender in the NCAA Tournament, and with Del Rosario leading the charge, they are poised to make another strong push for the championship. Del Rosario’s skill set, particularly her shot-blocking ability and rebounding prowess, makes her a matchup nightmare for opposing teams. She has the ability to control the paint on both ends of the floor, and her offensive game has steadily improved, making her a complete player who can impact the game in a variety of ways.
One of the most impressive aspects of Del Rosario’s game is her ability to dominate defensively. Over the past few seasons, she has established herself as one of the best shot blockers in the country, and her presence in the paint often forces opponents to adjust their offensive strategies. Her length and athleticism allow her to contest shots and alter the flow of the game, and her rebounding ability ensures that LSU has the upper hand in the battle for possession. These attributes make her a player who can anchor the Tigers’ defense and provide a foundation for their success.
Offensively, Del Rosario has made significant strides in her game. She is no longer just a rim protector and rebounder; she has developed a reliable scoring touch, both around the basket and from mid-range. Her ability to score in the post, combined with her soft touch on jump shots, makes her a versatile offensive weapon. Additionally, her ability to pass out of the post has made her an even more dangerous player, as she can facilitate LSU’s offense and create opportunities for her teammates.
While Del Rosario’s individual skills have been impressive, her leadership and impact on her teammates cannot be understated. As one of the team’s captains, Del Rosario sets the tone for LSU both on and off the court. Her work ethic, competitive spirit, and commitment to the team have earned her the respect of her teammates and coaches. Del Rosario’s leadership extends beyond her own performance; she is constantly pushing her teammates to elevate their games and work together as a cohesive unit. This sense of camaraderie has been a key component of LSU’s success in recent seasons, and it will undoubtedly continue to be a driving force in the upcoming campaign.
Del Rosario’s decision to return to LSU also has broader implications for the future of women’s college basketball. In an era where the WNBA is becoming an increasingly attractive option for top prospects, players like Del Rosario choosing to stay in college for another year is a testament to the growing appeal of the college game. Players are no longer just focused on making the jump to the professional ranks as quickly as possible; instead, they are embracing the opportunity to continue to develop their skills in a competitive and supportive college environment.
For LSU, Del Rosario’s return is a statement of intent. The Tigers have positioned themselves as a powerhouse in women’s college basketball, and with Del Rosario back in the fold, they are primed to make a run at the national title. The SEC is one of the most competitive conferences in the country, and LSU will have to navigate a tough slate of opponents, but with Del Rosario anchoring the team, the Tigers will be a formidable force.
As the news continues to reverberate throughout the college basketball world, LSU fans are filled with excitement and anticipation for the upcoming season. The return of Del Rosario has energized the fanbase and given them renewed hope for the future. LSU’s women’s basketball program is on the rise, and with Del Rosario leading the way, there is no limit to what the Tigers can accomplish.
Del Rosario’s decision to return to LSU also highlights the importance of the college basketball experience for student-athletes. While the opportunity to play professionally is undoubtedly appealing, there is something special about being able to compete at the highest level of college basketball, represent one’s school, and continue to grow as a player. Del Rosario’s commitment to LSU speaks to her love for the game and her dedication to achieving greatness with her teammates.
For now, LSU’s focus will shift toward preparing for the 2025-26 season. With Del Rosario back in the fold, the Tigers will look to continue building on their success and push for a national championship. LSU fans will undoubtedly be watching closely, eagerly awaiting another thrilling season of women’s college basketball.
As Del Rosario’s return becomes official, the buzz surrounding LSU’s women’s basketball program will only grow. The Tigers are a team to watch, and with Del Rosario leading the charge, there is no telling just how far this team can go. One thing is certain: LSU women’s basketball is in good hands, and Aalyah Del Rosario’s decision to return has set the stage for an unforgettable season in Baton Rouge.
