In a seismic recruiting win that’s sending shockwaves through the world of women’s college basketball, the LSU Tigers have landed the No. 1 overall recruit in the nation. The decision came after a fierce recruiting battle between two SEC rivals: LSU and Auburn. After months of speculation, campus visits, NIL negotiations, and intense recruiting pitches, the elite five-star forward made her commitment public with a heartfelt announcement streamed live on social media.
This commitment not only bolsters LSU’s already elite standing in the women’s basketball landscape but also marks a symbolic power shift within the SEC. For Auburn, who pushed hard for the commitment, the news stings—but also signals that the program is knocking on the door of national relevance once again.
Let’s break down the implications of this monumental decision, the player’s profile, what it means for both programs, and how LSU has reasserted itself as a national title contender for years to come.
The Star: Who Is She?
The player in question is Alana “Lani” Marshall, a 6-foot-2 dynamic forward out of Montverde Academy in Florida. Widely considered a generational talent, Marshall is ranked as the No. 1 overall recruit in the Class of 2025 by ESPNW, ProspectsNation, and All-Star Girls Report. Known for her elite athleticism, three-level scoring, lockdown defense, and high basketball IQ, Marshall has drawn comparisons to WNBA legends such as Tamika Catchings and Maya Moore.
Marshall averaged 24.6 points, 11.8 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 3.0 blocks per game as a junior while leading Montverde to a national championship. Her versatility, maturity, and leadership qualities set her apart not just among high school players but even many current college athletes.
She was also a gold medalist with Team USA at the FIBA U17 World Cup and MVP of the Nike EYBL circuit this past summer, further cementing her status as the top prize in the 2025 recruiting class.
The Decision: Why LSU Over Auburn?
1. The Mulkey Effect
There’s no denying the gravitational pull of Kim Mulkey, LSU’s head coach. With four national championships to her name, including the 2023 title with LSU, Mulkey has built a powerhouse program capable of attracting the nation’s best talent. Her ability to develop players into WNBA-ready athletes—combined with her bold, unapologetic coaching style—was a huge draw for Marshall.
“Coach Mulkey doesn’t just win. She elevates her players,” Marshall said during her commitment announcement. “She told me, ‘You’ll leave LSU as a woman, a competitor, and a champion.’ That’s what I wanted to hear.”
2. NIL Powerhouse
LSU has one of the most robust and organized NIL collectives in women’s sports. With stars like Angel Reese and Flau’jae Johnson previously cashing in on lucrative NIL deals, LSU has shown it knows how to turn athletes into brands. According to reports, Marshall is expected to sign multiple endorsement deals—some of which are rumored to be in the mid-six figures—once she officially enrolls.
That level of marketing and financial opportunity was tough to beat.
3. Winning Culture
LSU’s recent dominance, including deep NCAA Tournament runs and elite-level competition in the SEC, helped convince Marshall that Baton Rouge was the place to be. She cited the program’s competitive nature, fan support, and tradition of excellence as defining factors in her decision.
Auburn’s Impressive Push
To Auburn’s credit, this wasn’t a landslide recruitment for LSU. Coach Johnnie Harris and her staff made an aggressive and compelling pitch. Auburn offered something different: the chance to be the cornerstone of a rebuilding program, the face of a resurgence.
Auburn recently made major improvements in recruiting, facilities, and staff—signaling a strong commitment to women’s basketball. Marshall visited the Plains twice and reportedly built strong relationships with the coaching staff and current players.
“Auburn’s future is bright. I loved the energy there,” Marshall said. “It was a very tough decision. I know they’re going to be special.”
While the Tigers from the Plains didn’t land Marshall, their ability to go toe-to-toe with LSU for the top prospect shows that Auburn is a program on the rise. They’re now seen as serious contenders in the recruiting world and could land other top-tier prospects in this class.
What Marshall Brings to LSU
Adding Alana Marshall makes LSU’s already stacked roster even more terrifying for opponents. With multiple five-star recruits already in the fold, LSU is positioning itself for a dynasty-like run. Here’s what Marshall adds to the mix:
- Versatility: She can play as a wing, stretch-four, or even as a small-ball center.
- Defense: Her lateral quickness, timing, and instincts make her one of the best defenders in the nation.
- Offensive Skillset: Marshall can shoot from deep, post-up, and finish through contact.
- Leadership: A vocal, mature leader who thrives in high-pressure situations.
Assuming the current core remains intact and development continues, LSU will have the most dangerous frontcourt in the nation for 2025-26.
Reactions From the Basketball World
Kim Mulkey, LSU Head Coach:
“Alana Marshall is the kind of player you build dynasties around. We’re blessed to have her join the LSU family. She’s going to leave a legacy in Baton Rouge.”
Johnnie Harris, Auburn Head Coach:
“We’re disappointed, of course, but proud of the relationships we built. We wish Alana nothing but success and will keep working to make Auburn the destination for top-tier talent.”
ESPN Recruiting Analyst, Debbie Antonelli:
“Marshall’s decision reaffirms LSU’s place atop the women’s basketball world. But don’t sleep on Auburn—they made this race very real. That program is on the verge.”
SEC Impact
The SEC continues to dominate the women’s basketball recruiting landscape. With powerhouse programs like South Carolina, LSU, and now Auburn aggressively pursuing elite players, the conference remains the toughest and most competitive in the nation.
Marshall’s commitment further consolidates LSU’s dominance, but it also raises the stakes for everyone else. South Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, and Auburn will all be vying for the next wave of stars, hoping to dethrone the current queens of the court.
Looking Ahead: A Potential LSU Dynasty?
With this commitment, LSU has secured the No. 1 recruiting class for 2025 and possibly the best class in program history. Combined with their existing talent and coaching pedigree, the Tigers look poised to make multiple Final Four runs and chase more national titles.
Mulkey now has an embarrassment of riches and faces the task of blending egos, managing minutes, and fostering a championship culture. But if anyone is up to the challenge, it’s her.
Meanwhile, Alana Marshall is already penciled in as a Day 1 starter. Her impact could be immediate—and profound.
What’s Next for Auburn?
While Auburn missed out on the nation’s top player, they remain in the hunt for several other five-star talents, including top-10 guard Janiya Dixon and elite wing Kamora Fields. Their recruiting trail is still warm, and the foundation laid with Marshall could help them close on other top-tier players.
This moment also signals to the basketball world that Auburn is serious. That message alone will help attract future talent.
Final Thoughts
Alana Marshall’s commitment to LSU is a defining moment for women’s college basketball and the SEC landscape. A generational player choosing a powerhouse program strengthens LSU’s place among the sport’s elite. For Auburn, it’s a near-miss but also a testament to their upward trajectory.
As for Marshall, the eyes of the basketball world now follow her to Baton Rouge, where she’ll carry the weight of expectations, media attention, and championship dreams. But if her past is any indication, she’s ready—not just to meet those expectations, but to exceed them.