LSU Advances to Elite Eight with a Thrilling Victory Over NC State
In a highly anticipated Sweet 16 matchup, the LSU Tigers punched their ticket to the Elite Eight after a hard-fought 80-73 victory over the NC State Wolfpack. The game, held in Albany, New York, featured high-intensity action, clutch performances, and a battle between two of the nation’s top programs. LSU, led by an electrifying performance from Aneesah Morrow, overcame a late deficit to secure the win and keep their championship aspirations alive.
First Quarter: A Fast-Paced Start
The game opened with both teams displaying high energy, pushing the tempo, and looking for early offensive opportunities. NC State’s backcourt, led by Aziaha James and Saniya Rivers, set the tone with quick ball movement and efficient shooting. The Wolfpack built an early 10-4 lead, forcing LSU to adjust defensively. However, Morrow made her presence known, grabbing offensive rebounds and scoring second-chance points. Her hustle plays sparked a run for LSU, who took their first lead at 14-12 with just under three minutes left in the quarter.
By the end of the first quarter, NC State held a narrow 19-17 lead, with both teams trading baskets. The quarter showcased the strengths of both squads—LSU’s dominance in the paint and NC State’s perimeter shooting.
Second Quarter: Morrow Takes Over
The second quarter belonged to Aneesah Morrow. The senior forward dominated on both ends of the court, scoring 12 points in the quarter while grabbing crucial rebounds. Her versatility was on full display, knocking down mid-range jumpers and finishing strong at the rim. Despite her efforts, NC State continued to respond, with Rivers and Madison Hayes hitting back-to-back three-pointers to reclaim the lead at 30-29 with four minutes left in the half.
LSU countered with a defensive adjustment, implementing a half-court trap that disrupted NC State’s offensive flow. Turnovers became a problem for the Wolfpack, allowing LSU to capitalize on transition opportunities. A late surge by Mikaylah Williams helped LSU close the half with a 38-35 advantage.
Third Quarter: NC State’s Resurgence
Coming out of the locker room, NC State played with a renewed sense of urgency. James found her rhythm, attacking LSU’s defense with precision. She scored eight points in the opening four minutes of the quarter, including a three-pointer that ignited the NC State crowd.
Meanwhile, LSU struggled to convert on open looks. Morrow continued her strong play, but the supporting cast had difficulty finding their shots. NC State took advantage and built their largest lead of the game at 55-48 with 2:30 left in the third. Just as it seemed the momentum was swinging in NC State’s favor, LSU’s Sa’Myah Smith stepped up. The sophomore forward hit a crucial jumper and followed it up with a big defensive play, blocking a shot that led to a fast-break layup for Williams. LSU cut the deficit to 58-54 heading into the final quarter.
Fourth Quarter: LSU Closes Strong
The final quarter was a display of championship-caliber basketball. With the game on the line, both teams fought for every possession. NC State looked to extend their lead early, but LSU’s defense tightened. Flau’jae Johnson, who had been quiet for most of the game, hit a key three-pointer to bring LSU within one, 61-60, with six minutes remaining.
The defining moment of the game came when Morrow took over in crunch time. She grabbed an offensive rebound over two defenders and converted a putback while drawing a foul. The three-point play shifted the momentum in LSU’s favor. From that point, LSU went on a 16-4 run to close out the game. Smith and Williams combined for 10 points in the final three minutes, sealing the victory.
Morrow’s Dominance and Key Contributions
Aneesah Morrow’s stat line was nothing short of spectacular: 30 points, 19 rebounds, three steals, and two blocks. She was the heartbeat of LSU’s offense and an anchor on defense. Her relentless rebounding kept possessions alive, and her scoring efficiency propelled LSU when they needed it most.
Sa’Myah Smith played a critical role as well, finishing with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Williams contributed 19 points, with 10 of those coming in the fourth quarter. Even with Flau’jae Johnson struggling with an injury, LSU found the resilience to pull through.
NC State’s Effort Falls Short
Despite the loss, NC State displayed incredible heart and talent. Aziaha James led the Wolfpack with 22 points, while Rivers and Hayes added 15 and 12 points, respectively. Their ability to shoot from deep and stretch the floor kept NC State competitive throughout the game.
However, NC State’s 17 turnovers proved costly. LSU’s defense capitalized on mistakes, leading to transition buckets that ultimately swung the game in their favor.
Looking Ahead: LSU vs. UCLA
With the win, LSU advances to the Elite Eight, where they will face No. 1 seed UCLA. The Bruins have been dominant all season, and the matchup promises to be a battle of elite frontcourts. Morrow’s ability to control the boards will be crucial against UCLA’s size and athleticism.
For NC State, this loss marks the end of a successful season. Though they fell short of their Final Four aspirations, the Wolfpack demonstrated their place among the nation’s elite programs.
LSU’s journey continues, and if this performance is any indication, the Tigers are poised to make a deep run in the tournament.