In a decision that will reverberate through the college basketball landscape for years to come, the No. 1 player in the country has committed to Kim Mulkey’s LSU Tigers, spurning powerhouse programs like Kentucky, Louisville, and Alabama in what is being called the biggest recruiting win of the year—and possibly of the decade.
The announcement came at a nationally televised press conference earlier today, where the generational talent, dressed in a gold and purple tracksuit, declared Baton Rouge her new home.
“I want to win championships, and I want to be pushed by the best,” she said confidently. “That’s why I’m choosing LSU.”
Just like that, the balance of power in women’s college basketball shifted once again—toward the bayou.
Who Is the No. 1 Player in America?
The name on every scout’s lips for the last two years: Joyce Edwards. A transcendent 6-foot-3 forward out of Camden, South Carolina, Edwards has dominated the high school circuit like few before her.
Averaging 28.3 points, 13.1 rebounds, 4.6 assists, 3.2 steals, and 2.5 blocks during her senior season, she combines explosive athleticism with a polished all-around game that evokes comparisons to legends like Tamika Catchings and Breanna Stewart.
Rated the unanimous No. 1 overall recruit by ESPNW, ProspectsNation, and All-Star Girls Report, Edwards is the kind of player who can single-handedly elevate a program from contender to champion.
“She’s not just the best player in the country,” said ESPN analyst Debbie Antonelli, “she’s one of the best I’ve ever seen at this age.”
Why LSU?
With elite programs like Kentucky, Louisville, and Alabama in the mix, many believed Edwards would choose a team closer to home—or one with a less crowded roster. But LSU’s blend of championship pedigree, NIL opportunities, and a larger-than-life head coach proved irresistible.
Kim Mulkey, now entering her fourth season at LSU, has transformed the Tigers into a national juggernaut. Since arriving from Baylor, she has landed multiple top-5 classes, won a national title in 2023, and built a culture centered around winning, visibility, and sisterhood.
Sources close to Edwards said Mulkey’s relentless pursuit, vision for her development, and commitment to putting players in the WNBA sealed the deal.
“Coach Mulkey made me feel like family from day one,” Edwards revealed. “She believes in me—and I believe in her.”
LSU’s new NIL ecosystem also played a significant role. Thanks to partnerships with local businesses, national sponsors, and athlete-centric media platforms, LSU has become one of the most financially attractive destinations in women’s sports.
Fit on the Roster: Dynasty in the Making?
Adding Edwards to an already stacked LSU lineup is almost unfair.
The Tigers return several key contributors from last season’s Final Four run, including Hailey Van Lith, Flau’jae Johnson, and Last-Tear Poa, while also welcoming 5-star guard Kianni Westbrook and former McDonald’s All-American Aalyah Del Rosario into the fold.
With the addition of Edwards, LSU may now possess the most dangerous frontcourt in America—blending power, finesse, and versatility.
Expect Mulkey to run a fast-paced, inside-out offense that features Edwards as both a scorer and a facilitator. Her ability to grab a rebound, push the break, and finish coast-to-coast will give LSU an edge few teams can match.
“Joyce isn’t just a post player,” said Mulkey. “She’s a weapon. Plain and simple.”
The Recruiting Masterclass by LSU
The behind-the-scenes recruiting battle for Edwards was intense. Kentucky’s staff made several trips to see her and pitched her on leading a rebuild under Coach Pope. Louisville, less than six hours away, used hometown proximity and WNBA connections as their main lure. Alabama pushed hard on family values and a chance to be the face of the program.
But LSU outmaneuvered everyone.
They brought Edwards to Baton Rouge for a game weekend that featured a sold-out PMAC, a meet-and-greet with Angel Reese, and a private sit-down with LSU President William Tate. NIL leaders also made presentations on how Edwards could build her brand into a national powerhouse.
“They made me feel like Beyoncé,” Edwards joked in an interview afterward. “I wasn’t just being recruited—I was being celebrated.”
What This Means for Kentucky, Louisville, and Alabama
Missing out on Edwards stings—especially for Kentucky, which had hoped to signal a new era under Mark Pope with a marquee signing. Despite making her top four and building strong rapport, the Wildcats simply couldn’t match LSU’s full-court press.
Louisville, under Jeff Walz, made a compelling pitch centered on development and style of play but fell short on NIL infrastructure and national exposure.
Alabama was seen as a dark horse in the race and came closer than many realize. But the Crimson Tide’s recent inconsistency in postseason success likely gave Edwards pause.
All three programs will have to pivot quickly and attempt to salvage top-10 finishes in their 2025 recruiting classes, but none will be able to replace the impact that Joyce Edwards would have brought.
️ Reactions Pour In
The basketball world wasted no time in reacting to the seismic commitment:
- Angel Reese, former LSU star:
“Let’s GEAUX! The legacy continues Welcome to the fam, Joyce!” - WNBA MVP A’ja Wilson, fellow South Carolina native:
“Congrats, Joyce!! Do what’s best for YOU. Proud of you no matter what. Go dominate.” - Dawn Staley, South Carolina head coach, was notably quiet on social media following the announcement, fueling speculation that LSU may now be the new dominant force in the SEC.
Fans, too, responded in waves, flooding LSU’s social media with hashtags like #JoyceToTheBayou, #MulkeyMagic, and #PurpleReign.
LSU’s Recruiting Pipeline: Unstoppable?
The Tigers have now secured back-to-back top-ranked recruiting classes, with Edwards joining a 2024 class that included two McDonald’s All-Americans and a top international guard.
Mulkey’s reputation for winning, paired with LSU’s growing media presence and NIL juggernaut, is making the program the dream destination for elite recruits.
And now with Joyce Edwards in purple and gold, the message is loud and clear: LSU is not just reloading—they’re building a dynasty.
What’s Next for Joyce Edwards?
Fans won’t have to wait long to see her in action. Edwards is expected to enroll for the fall semester and participate in LSU’s international tour this August. She’ll likely start from Day 1 and be a centerpiece in LSU’s 2025 national title quest.
With the 2025 WNBA Draft in her sights long-term, Edwards has all the tools to be a No. 1 pick: elite skill set, size, maturity, and marketability.
“I want to leave a legacy,” she told reporters. “Not just as a great player—but as a champion. LSU gives me that chance.”
Final Thoughts
This commitment is more than just another big-name signing. It’s a defining moment for Kim Mulkey’s program, a clear signal to the rest of the country that LSU is the epicenter of women’s college basketball right now.
With Joyce Edwards on board, the Tigers are not only poised to compete for another national title—they may very well dominate the sport for years to come.
