The Women’s NCAA Tournament Schedule: LSU Women’s Basketball vs. Florida State

The NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament is one of the most exciting events in collegiate sports, and this year’s tournament is shaping up to be particularly thrilling. Among the many high-stakes matchups, one game that stands out is the clash between the LSU Tigers and the Florida State Seminoles. These two powerhouse programs will face off in what promises to be a competitive and electrifying contest, as both teams look to make their mark in the tournament and advance further into the postseason.

As the 2025 NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament enters its most critical stages, this game between LSU and Florida State will be one of the marquee matchups, showcasing the high level of talent and coaching in women’s college basketball. For fans, players, and coaches alike, this game will be a pivotal moment in the journey to the Final Four. Let’s take a closer look at the two teams, their strengths and weaknesses, key players to watch, and how they’ve gotten to this point in the tournament.

LSU Women’s Basketball: A Team on the Rise

The LSU Tigers, under the leadership of head coach Kim Mulkey, have become one of the most exciting teams in women’s college basketball. Mulkey, a three-time NCAA Champion coach, has transformed the LSU program since taking over in 2021, bringing in top-tier recruits and implementing her aggressive, fast-paced style of play. LSU is known for its dynamic offense, stout defense, and deep roster, all of which have helped them become a consistent contender in the NCAA tournament.

Key Players for LSU

1. Angel Reese – One of the most dominant players in the nation, Angel Reese has been the focal point of LSU’s success. The versatile forward is a double-double machine, capable of scoring inside, grabbing rebounds, and creating opportunities for her teammates. Reese is a standout on both sides of the ball and has the potential to take over games with her athleticism, scoring ability, and leadership. As one of the top players in women’s basketball, Reese’s performance in this tournament will be key to LSU’s chances of advancing further.
2. Flau’jae Johnson – A freshman sensation, Flau’jae Johnson has had an immediate impact on the LSU program. Known for her scoring ability, defensive prowess, and poise, Johnson has been a key contributor in the Tigers’ tournament run. Her versatility allows her to contribute in multiple areas of the game, and her energy is contagious on the court. Johnson’s performance will be crucial as LSU looks to advance to the next round.
3. Alexis Morris – A seasoned point guard, Alexis Morris brings experience and leadership to LSU’s backcourt. She is known for her playmaking ability, distributing the ball efficiently and helping create scoring opportunities for her teammates. Morris has been instrumental in LSU’s offensive flow, and her ability to manage the game and keep the offense in rhythm will be critical in their matchup against Florida State.

Team Strengths and Style of Play

LSU’s strength lies in its defense and rebounding. The Tigers are relentless on the glass, often outrebounding opponents by large margins, and they take pride in their ability to lock down opposing offenses. Coach Kim Mulkey’s emphasis on team defense, particularly in transition, has made LSU a tough team to beat.

Offensively, LSU relies on a balanced attack. While Angel Reese is the team’s primary scoring threat, the Tigers have multiple players who can step up and score. Whether it’s Reese dominating in the paint, Johnson scoring off the dribble, or Morris facilitating the offense, LSU has a diverse offensive scheme that can keep opponents on their heels.

LSU is also known for its tough, physical play, which can often overwhelm opponents. The Tigers’ ability to impose their will on both ends of the floor makes them a dangerous team, and their combination of talent, experience, and toughness makes them one of the top contenders in the tournament.

Florida State Women’s Basketball: A Team Built on Defense and Balance

Florida State is one of the premier programs in women’s college basketball, known for its exceptional defensive play and well-rounded team approach. Under head coach Brooke Wyckoff, the Seminoles have continued to be a formidable opponent in the NCAA Tournament, consistently competing with some of the best teams in the country. Florida State has earned a reputation for its scrappy, gritty style of play, and their ability to make key plays at critical moments has been a hallmark of their success.

Key Players for Florida State

1. Ta’Niya Latson – The Seminoles’ standout guard, Ta’Niya Latson, is one of the most explosive players in the country. A dynamic scorer, Latson can attack the basket, hit the three-pointer, and create her own shot in clutch situations. Her ability to score in a variety of ways makes her a constant threat, and she has the potential to take over a game. Florida State will rely heavily on Latson to lead their offense and match LSU’s physicality.
2. Miah Hines-Allen – A versatile forward, Miah Hines-Allen is another key player for Florida State. Known for her rebounding and defense, Hines-Allen is a key contributor on both ends of the floor. Her ability to score in the post, as well as her presence on the defensive side, will be crucial as the Seminoles try to contain LSU’s dominant frontcourt.
3. Morgan Jones – A veteran guard for the Seminoles, Morgan Jones has been an important piece of Florida State’s success this season. Jones is known for her ability to lock down opposing players on defense and score when needed. Her leadership and experience will be essential in Florida State’s efforts to advance in the tournament.

Team Strengths and Style of Play

Florida State’s defense is its biggest strength. The Seminoles are known for their aggressive, in-your-face defense, making life difficult for their opponents. They rely on causing turnovers, getting steals, and pushing the tempo to create easy transition opportunities. Florida State’s ability to lock down opposing offenses and force teams to play at their pace has made them one of the toughest defensive teams in the nation.

Offensively, Florida State relies on a balanced attack. While Latson is the primary scorer, the Seminoles have several players who can step up and contribute on offense. Florida State is unselfish with the ball and prides itself on its ability to share the ball and create scoring opportunities for everyone on the floor. The team’s balance and ability to execute their offense under pressure will be essential in their matchup with LSU.

The Matchup: LSU vs. Florida State

This matchup between LSU and Florida State promises to be a thrilling contest. Both teams have elite talent, but their styles of play are different, which should make for an intriguing game. LSU’s physicality and dominance in the paint will go head-to-head with Florida State’s tenacious defense and high-pressure style. The game will likely come down to which team can impose its will on the other and dictate the pace of play.

Key Factors for LSU to Win

1. Dominating the Glass – LSU has one of the best rebounding teams in the country, and they will need to control the boards against Florida State. If LSU can win the rebounding battle and limit Florida State’s second-chance opportunities, it will give them a significant advantage.
2. Angel Reese’s Presence in the Paint – Angel Reese’s ability to score in the post and grab crucial rebounds will be essential for LSU’s success. Florida State has a strong defensive unit, but Reese’s size and skill in the paint make her a difficult matchup for any team.
3. Defending Ta’Niya Latson – Latson is Florida State’s primary offensive weapon, and LSU will need to find a way to slow her down. If LSU can limit Latson’s scoring and force other players to step up, they’ll have a better chance of controlling the game.

Key Factors for Florida State to Win

1. Defensive Pressure – Florida State’s defense will need to be at its best to stifle LSU’s offensive flow. The Seminoles excel at forcing turnovers and disrupting opposing offenses, so they will need to bring that same intensity against LSU’s talented roster.
2. Controlling the Tempo – Florida State thrives when they can dictate the tempo of the game and get out in transition. They’ll need to push the ball and try to get easy fast-break points while keeping LSU from setting up their half-court offense.
3. Supporting Cast Contributions – While Latson is the star, Florida State will need contributions from other players to take down LSU. Players like Hines-Allen and Jones need to step up, both offensively and defensively, to provide balance and support.

What’s at Stake?

The LSU vs. Florida State game is about more than just advancing to the next round of the NCAA Tournament. It’s about pride, legacy, and the opportunity to make a deep run toward the Final Four. Both teams have the talent and potential to make it far, but only one will be able to advance. LSU’s physicality and offensive power will be tested by Florida State’s defense and balanced attack, and this game is sure to be a thrilling back-and-forth affair.

For the players, coaches, and fans, this game is an opportunity to showcase their skills on the national stage and continue the journey to a national championship. As both teams gear up for this monumental matchup, one thing is certain: women’s college basketball fans are in for a treat. The energy and intensity of the tournament will be on full display, and with a spot in the next round on the line, every possession will count.