NC State Wolfpack face the LSU Tigers in Sweet 16.

The NC State Wolfpack and LSU Tigers are set to clash in the Sweet 16 of the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. This highly anticipated matchup will take place on March 28, 2025, in Spokane, Washington. Both teams have had impressive seasons and are eager to continue their run toward the Final Four.

Season Recap

NC State Wolfpack (28-6, ACC)

The Wolfpack have been a model of consistency in recent years, securing their sixth Sweet 16 appearance in the last seven NCAA tournaments. Under head coach Wes Moore, NC State has maintained a strong defensive identity while utilizing a balanced offensive attack.

Key Moments:

Defeated Tennessee in the second round with a strong defensive performance (74-61).
Finished third in the ACC behind Virginia Tech and Notre Dame.
Displayed resilience throughout the season despite injuries to key players.

LSU Tigers (30-5, SEC)

The defending national champions are back in the Sweet 16, led by head coach Kim Mulkey. LSU boasts one of the most high-powered offenses in the country, averaging 85.5 points per game. Their ability to dominate on the boards and push the pace has made them a formidable opponent.

Key Moments:

Defeated Louisville in the second round (89-77), led by Flau’Jae Johnson’s 26 points.
Finished second in the SEC, just behind South Carolina.
Have won 12 of their last 13 games, showcasing strong late-season form.

Previous Encounter

These two teams faced off earlier in the season on November 27, 2024, in the Bahamas, where LSU secured an 82-65 victory. In that game, Mikaylah Williams led the Tigers with 24 points, while Saniya Rivers was NC State’s top scorer with 21 points. LSU’s rebounding advantage (+20) played a critical role in their win.

Key Players to Watch

NC State Wolfpack

Saniya Rivers (Guard): A do-it-all guard who leads the team in defensive rebounds (5.7 per game) and contributes on both ends.
Aziaha James (Guard): The team’s top scorer, averaging 18.1 points per game, and a strong three-point shooter (2.2 made per game).
Madison Hayes (Forward): The Wolfpack’s best rebounder (7.3 per game), who can stretch the floor with her shooting.

LSU Tigers

Flau’Jae Johnson (Guard): One of the most electrifying guards in the country, averaging 18.8 points and 5.7 rebounds per game.
Aneesah Morrow (Forward): The SEC’s leading rebounder (8.4 defensive rebounds per game), dominating the paint.
Mikaylah Williams (Guard): A sharpshooter averaging 1.5 three-pointers per game over the last 10 games.

Matchup Analysis

Offense vs. Defense

LSU thrives on an up-tempo game, utilizing their athleticism and scoring ability to overwhelm opponents. Their 85.5 PPG mark ranks among the highest in the nation. In contrast, NC State’s strength lies in its structured offense and disciplined defense, which allows just 62.1 points per game.

Rebounding Battle

LSU dominated the boards in their last meeting, and NC State will need to counter that in this game. The emergence of freshmen Tilda Trygger and Lorena Awou could provide the Wolfpack with an inside presence to challenge LSU’s rebounding prowess.

X-Factors

NC State: If Aziaha James can get hot from beyond the arc, it could open up the floor for the Wolfpack’s offense.
LSU: Aneesah Morrow’s rebounding and second-chance opportunities could be the difference-maker in a close contest.

Predictions & Expectations

Many analysts predict a closely contested game. LSU’s offensive firepower gives them an edge, but NC State’s experience and discipline make them a dangerous opponent. If NC State can control the tempo and limit LSU’s transition opportunities, they could pull off the upset. However, if LSU dictates the pace and dominates the boards, they are likely to advance to the Elite Eight.

Final Score Prediction: LSU 78, NC State 72

No matter the outcome, this matchup promises to be an exciting clash between two elite programs with Final Four aspirations.