Final Score: LSU Tigers vs. Alabama Crimson Tide, February 27, 2025

Early Dominance by Alabama

The game kicked off with a fast-paced tempo, and Alabama quickly made a statement. The Crimson Tide showed early aggression, especially in their offensive execution. Their offense, led by Aaliyah Nye and Sarah Ashlee Barker, utilized both outside shooting and inside play to stretch the LSU defense. Nye, in particular, had a scorching start, hitting several mid-range jumpers and three-pointers. Alabama’s defensive strategy was also on display, as they forced LSU into several tough shots, keeping them from finding rhythm early on.

By the end of the first quarter, Alabama had built a comfortable 23-16 lead, which they extended to 46-35 at halftime. Their defense was able to limit LSU’s star player, Mikaylah Williams, forcing her into contested shots. Alabama’s ability to mix defensive pressure and explosive offense had LSU on the back foot.

LSU’s Resilience: A Turnaround in the Second Half

The Tigers came out of the locker room for the second half with a newfound energy. Kim Mulkey, LSU’s head coach, made crucial adjustments, focusing on quick ball movement and pushing the tempo. LSU began to hit their shots and executed better on both ends of the floor. The Tigers narrowed the deficit in the third quarter with a series of fast breaks and quick transition points.

Mikaylah Williams started to find her rhythm, taking control of the game and scoring key buckets. Her ability to draw fouls and finish plays in the paint kept LSU within striking distance. As the third quarter progressed, LSU’s defense also tightened up, with Aneesah Morrow providing much-needed energy in the post. Morrow was a force in both scoring and rebounding, finishing with 16 points and a team-high nine rebounds.

The Tigers went on a 10-1 run in the fourth quarter, with Morrow and Williams leading the charge. As the final minutes of regulation ticked down, the game became a back-and-forth affair. The intensity in Coleman Coliseum was palpable as each team traded baskets, with the lead changing multiple times. LSU, buoyed by the resilient play of their star players, managed to tie the game at 79 with 23 seconds left on the clock, setting the stage for an unforgettable overtime period.

Overtime: The Tide Holds Strong

Overtime proved to be a test of willpower and mental fortitude for both teams. Alabama had already lost two of their key players—Aaliyah Nye and Sarah Ashlee Barker—who had fouled out during regulation, leaving the Crimson Tide without their leading scorers for the extra period. The loss of these players could have been a blow to Alabama’s chances, but the team dug deep and found other ways to close out the game.

Zaay Green emerged as a key contributor in overtime, scoring five points, including crucial free throws that put Alabama up by three. Her calm demeanor and sharp execution in clutch moments were a testament to the growth and maturity she’s shown throughout the season. Essence Cody, who had been steady all game long, also stepped up, contributing significant points and rebounds during the extra period.

On the LSU side, Mikaylah Williams had an opportunity to send the game into a second overtime, but her three-point attempt as time expired rimmed out. That shot would have been the difference, but the ball did not fall for LSU, and Alabama held on to claim the 88-85 victory.

Statistical Breakdown

Alabama’s win was defined by their ability to execute under pressure and the standout performances from their key players:

Aaliyah Nye: With 28 points, Nye was the offensive catalyst for Alabama. She shot efficiently, hitting 9-of-12 from the field, including 3-of-4 from beyond the arc.
Sarah Ashlee Barker: Contributed 21 points, five rebounds, and five assists, and was instrumental in both offense and defense. Her foul-out was a setback, but she left it all on the floor.
Zaay Green: Her performance in overtime, scoring five crucial points, highlighted her ability to deliver when her team needed it most.
Essence Cody: Contributed 17 points and six rebounds, anchoring the team in the paint and on defense.

For LSU, Mikaylah Williams was the heart and soul of the team, finishing with 22 points. While her missed three-pointer at the buzzer was a heartbreaking end, she had fought tirelessly throughout the game. Aneesah Morrow added 16 points and nine rebounds, providing steady contributions, and Sa’Myah Smith chipped in 15 points. However, LSU struggled to maintain consistent defense against Alabama’s fast-paced offense and could not stop the Crimson Tide from executing in key moments.

The Emotional Roller Coaster

The game had plenty of emotional highs and lows. Alabama’s fans were on the edge of their seats as their team extended their lead and then held off LSU in the final minutes of regulation. The tension was only amplified by LSU’s relentless comeback. For LSU, the missed shot by Williams in the final seconds was an agonizing moment that would undoubtedly stay with the team.

But in sports, such moments often define teams and players. LSU, despite the loss, will likely use this experience to fuel their determination in the postseason. They showed resilience, rallying back from a significant deficit, and while they fell short, their response in the second half was a testament to their fight and composure.

For Alabama, the win was not just a victory on the scoreboard—it was a statement. Beating a top-10 team, especially LSU, proved that they were capable of competing with the best in the nation. This win could serve as a catalyst for their NCAA tournament aspirations, as the Crimson Tide showed they can step up under pressure.

Tactical Insights

Alabama’s Offensive Strategy: The Crimson Tide’s success was rooted in their balanced offense, which effectively blended perimeter shooting and inside play. Nye and Barker were crucial in spreading the floor, while players like Green and Cody executed in the paint and in transition.
LSU’s Adjustments: After a lackluster first half, LSU did a better job of pushing the ball in transition and creating open shots. Morrow’s post presence and Williams’ perimeter shooting were vital in their comeback effort.
Turnovers and Free Throws: Alabama’s defense forced key turnovers in the second half, which led to fast-break opportunities. Both teams struggled with free-throw shooting at times, but Alabama’s ability to make clutch free throws in the overtime period sealed the win.

Impact on the Season

This game holds significant weight in the grand scheme of both teams’ seasons. Alabama’s win will boost their confidence and possibly their seeding in the upcoming NCAA tournament. Their ability to overcome the loss of key players and still close out a top-tier opponent shows their resilience and mental toughness.

For LSU, while the loss is a tough pill to swallow, it can serve as a valuable learning experience. They will have to refine their defensive schemes and find ways to close out games under pressure. The emotional scars from the game’s final moments could fuel their drive in the postseason.

A Classic Game

The 88-85 victory for Alabama over LSU in overtime on February 27, 2025, was a classic example of college basketball’s unpredictable nature. Both teams displayed tremendous skill, determination, and resilience. Alabama, in particular, made a statement with a hard-fought victory that will have long-term implications for their tournament hopes. On the other hand, LSU, despite the loss, showed why they are a national title contender, as they refused to back down even when faced with adversity.

This game is one of those memorable moments in sports that fans will talk about for years to come. The win was significant not only for the final score but also for the way the game unfolded—an emotional rollercoaster filled with key plays, mistakes, and heroic moments. As March Madness looms, both teams are poised to make deep runs, and this game may have just been a preview of the intensity to come.